Apathy: A common neurobehavioural problem

Braine, ME

Abstract

Apathy is a common behaviour in many neurological conditions, yet it lacks
a consensus on its definition. Furthermore, there is a lack of validated
standardized assessment tools for detecting apathy and assessing its
severity. In this article, apathy will be further discussed to increase
neuroscience nurses’ knowledge and understanding of this common
problem, and call attention to the concept of apathy in the neuroscience
setting. The definition of apathy and the assessment tools to quantify and
characterize apathy will be reviewed. The evidence underlying this
pathophysiology will be considered along with its relation to associated
conditions such as traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s
disease. Finally a consideration of the treatment options will highlight the
need for future research into this important phenomenon.

Citation

Braine, M. (2010). Apathy: A common neurobehavioural problem. British Journal of Neuroscience Nursing, 6(7), 335-441

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Jan 1, 2010
• Deposit Date: Apr 26, 2011
• Journal: British Journal of Neuroscience Nursing
• Print ISSN: 1747-0307
• Publisher: MA Healthcare
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 6
• Issue: 7
• Pages: 335-441
• Publisher URL: http://www.bjnn.co.uk/