Assessment of higher level cognitive-communication functions in adolescents with ABI: Standardization of the student version of the functional assessment of verbal reasoning and executive strategies (S-FAVRES)

Abstract

The S-FAVRES provides a reliable, functional and quantifiable measure of subtle cognitive-communication difficulties in adolescents that can assist speech-language pathologists in planning treatment and integration to school and real world communication.

Introducing the model of cognitive-communication competence: A model to guide evidence-based communication interventions after brain injury

“…Speed of processing is critical to the ability to process complex social interaction, facial expressions, conversational hints, interjections, and contextual influences, not only to keep pace with the complex processing of social situations (103,154,155) but also to inhibit unwanted behaviours in a timely fashion (152). Slower processing after ABI has also been well documented during completion of complex communication tasks that simulate the tasks of work, school, or community interaction (19,32,33). Speed of processing is included in the model to convey the need to evaluate cognitive-communication performance using timed tests, to evaluate real-world communication demands in terms of speed and efficiency in addition to accuracy, and to address efficiency of communication through provision of supports and accommodations when required.…”

“…Verbal reasoning is mediated by specific areas of the prefrontal cortex (183) and involves contributions from other cognitive processes such as working memory, attention and inhibitory control. Reported reasoning deficits after ABI include reduced ability to do the following: extract the 'gist' or the pertinent information, eliminate irrelevant information, weigh the facts, flexibly revise based on new information, generate alternatives, or predict consequences (19,20,32,33,74). Problem solving incorporates reasoning and decision-making and also includes the ability to identify the problem, to plan and implement solutions, and to monitor, evaluate, refine, and revise.…”

“…Evidence supports SLP interventions to improve attention (26), memory (27,28), social communication (10,29), reading comprehension (30), and executive function and metacognition (31). SLP assessments have been shown to be helpful in detecting subtle but debilitating deficits (2,6,32,33) and in guiding return to school (14,16,34) and return to work (19,20). Evidence supports SLP involvement for individuals with ABI in acute care (35)(36)(37), inpatient rehabilitation (38)(39)(40), and community-based interventions including several years post injury (8,41).…”

Supporting Students with TBI: A Clinically Focused Tutorial for Speech-Language Pathologists

“…13,25 Standardized assessments that are familiar to SLPs in the schools can be used for students with TBI, and may include a comprehensive language assessment such as the Comprehensive Assessment of Spoken Language-2 37 paired with measures of cognitive performance such as the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-2 (BRIEF-2) 38 and Student Functional Assessment of Verbal Reasoning and Executive Strategies (Student FAVRES). 39 Additionally, informal or nonstandardized assessments are critical to understanding the impact of deficits directly on a student's classroom performance. 26 Informal assessments can include classroom observation (e.g., observing a student's notetaking during lecture or the student's participation in a group activity) and comparison of pre-and postinjury academic work.…”

Communication in children and adolescents after acquired brain injury: An exploratory study

“…Future research should include more trials in real-world settings to further investigate the usability of the CETI in adolescents with ABI. A new clinical test, the S-FAVRES, may provide useful information about communication potentials (39). Self-awareness and social skills are additional areas of particular importance to explore in participants with communication problems after ABI (40).…”