Cognitive neuropsychology

Cognitive Neuropsychology is a branch of psychology that aims to understand how the structure and function of the brain relates to specific psychological processes. Cognitive neuropsychology places a particular emphasis on studying the cognitive effects of brain injury or neurological illness with a view to inferring models of normal cognitive functioning.

History

Cognitive neuropsychology has a long history, with the field gaining prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, largely through the work of pioneers such as Paul Broca and Carl Wernicke. These early researchers were able to link specific cognitive deficits to localized brain damage, providing the foundation for later work in the field.

Approach

The approach of cognitive neuropsychology is to understand the mind and brain by observing the effects of cerebral lesions on cognitive abilities. This is based on the premise that if a specific cognitive problem can be found after an area of the brain has been damaged, it is possible that this part of the brain is in some way involved.

Methods

Cognitive neuropsychologists use a variety of diagnostic tests to determine the nature and extent of brain damage or dysfunction. These may include neuroimaging techniques such as MRI or CT scan, as well as cognitive tests that assess functions such as memory, attention, and language skills.

Applications

The findings from cognitive neuropsychology can be applied in many areas, such as the development of therapies for individuals with brain injury, the design of Artificial Intelligence systems, and the creation of 'user-friendly' technological systems.

See Also

• Neuropsychology
• Cognitive Psychology
• Brain Injury
• Neurological Illness

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