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Abstract

This study examined the associations among brain volumes, theory of mind (ToM), peer relationships, and psychosocial adjustment in children with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Participants included 8- to 13-year-old children, 82 with TBI and 61 with orthopedic injuries (OIs). Children completed three measures of ToM. Classmates provided ratings of participants’ peer relationships, acceptance, and friendships. Parents rated children’s psychosocial adjustment. MRI was used to determine brain volumes. Brain volumes were associated with ToM, which in turn was associated with peer rejection/victimization. Peer rejection/victimization in the classroom was associated with peer acceptance, friendship, social withdrawal, and general psychopathology. Brain volumes, ToM, peer relationships, and social adjustment show significant links among children with TBI and those with OI. The findings support a multilevel model of social competence in childhood TBI.

Keywords

social cognition brain social behavior

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Social Competence in Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury

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