Prevalence estimates of anger range as high as 71%, and aggression can be seen is as many as 11-34% of patients following a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Classic expressions of anger include:

• Yelling
• Cursing
• Throwing objects
• Punching walls
• Slamming doors
• Threats

Although there is no consistent relationship between injury severity and anger expression, individuals with a pre-TBI history of anger issues may experience exacerbations of these pre-existing difficulties. However, anger may also be seen as a new manifestation even without prior history of anger problems. Such anger may also escalate into physical aggression in some cases.

Why patients express anger following a TBI
Managing anger and irritability