Decision making is the process of choosing between two or more courses of action. It is important for our health and well-being and allows us to make good choices and wise decisions in life. The decision-making process consists of six steps. These steps are:
| Step | Example |
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| 2. Brainstorm for possible solutions or options. |
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| 3. Discuss the options and their potential consequences. Narrow the options down to no more than three choices. |
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| 4. Choose one of the three choices, generate a plan, and follow through. |
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| 5. Evaluate the solution. |
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Impaired decision making can lead to:
- Difficulty recognizing problems
- Impaired ability to make decisions quickly
- Impulsivity
- Difficulty with reasoning
- Making inappropriate or potentially harmful decisions
Strategies that individuals can use to improve decision making are:
- Recognize when you are about to make a decision and tell yourself to think before acting
- Create a pros and cons list for each potential option or solution
- Do not rush yourself. Give yourself time to think and make a decision.
- Break larger decisions into smaller components and work on one decision at a time
- Get advice from people you trust before making a decision
References:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/in-flux/201505/the-importance-learning-how-make-decisions
Read about more TBI Terms in the NeuroPraxis Glossary!
NeuroPraxis is a Brain Injury Rehab Program for the Home and Community for Los Angeles, San Diego, Los Angeles, Orange County, Bakersfield, San Bernardino, Santa Barbara, Riverside, San Luis Obispo, Tulare, and Ventura.
