Eclectic perspectives on the psychology of aphasia

This article explores the psychological changes that occur in patients who have suffered a stroke with resulting aphasia and examines the adjustments necessary to help the patient cope. The eclectic approach described in this paper examines the psychology of aphasia from three perspectives: effects of brain injury, psychological defenses and coping styles, and responses to loss. Depression, anxiety attacks, ego restriction, crying, euphoria, denial, anger, and a host of other psychological reactions can accompany stroke, sometimes causing health care personnel to feel overwhelmed by these psychological concomitants in their patients. This paper is intended as a guide to understanding the significant psychological adjustments many patients must undergo. Current information is provided to assist in evaluating and treating these patients.