Certified Brain Injury Specialist Practice Exam

What is a common effect of brain injuries in early childhood?

1. Increased academic performance

2. Reduced life expectancy

3. Delayed developmental milestones

4. Improved social skills

The correct answer is: Delayed developmental milestones

Delayed developmental milestones are a common effect of brain injuries in early childhood because the brain is still developing during these formative years. A brain injury can disrupt the normal progression of cognitive, motor, and social skills, leading to delays in reaching important developmental milestones such as walking, talking, or social interactions. In early childhood, critical periods of brain plasticity and development are underway, meaning that any injury can significantly impact a child's growth and learning process. These delays may manifest as difficulties in physical coordination, language acquisition, social engagement, and other essential skills that are crucial for overall development. In contrast, the other options describe outcomes that are not typically associated with brain injuries in early childhood. Increased academic performance would not be expected following a brain injury, and while there can be increased risks associated with health that may lead to reduced life expectancy, it is not a direct outcome of brain injury in early childhood specifically. Improved social skills also would not generally result from a brain injury, as social interactions can be affected negatively due to communication deficits and behavioral changes often associated with such injuries.