Chapter 3: Neuropsychology, the scientific approach

Question 1

Test-retest effect

Answer 1

If one or more tests are used to determine a disorder, a person may show better performance on the second test.

Question 2

Fundamental research

Answer 2

Aimed at a better understanding of underlying disorders and brain structures.

Question 3

Clinically neuropsychologically oriented research

Answer 3

Aimed at describing the course of the disease

Question 4

Dissociation

Answer 4

Selective/specific dropout of brain functions.

Question 5

Global deterioration

Answer 5

The opposite of dissocation, a more global neural disorder, like neurodegenerative dimentia.

Question 6

Simple dissocation

Answer 6

Demonstrating a single dissociation between structures and functions extends a simple association by showing that a lesion is related to a specific cognitive, motor, or behavioural function and is not related to a different cognitive, motor, or behavioural function.

Question 7

Double dissociation

Answer 7

When 2 related mental processes are shown to function independently of each other. A classic example of Double Dissociation is speech and language comprehension. Although both processes pertain to use of language, the brain structures that control them work independently.

Question 8

Problems in formulating double dissociations

Answer 8

• The patient can have a mild disorder ander score normal on task A and just below the cut-off point in task B.

Question 9

Phases of neuropsychological assessment

Answer 9

1. Referral question
2. Patients file investigation: medical en psychiatric history.
3. Hypotheses are formulated
4. Clinical interview: complaints etc.
5. Psychometric tests
6. Conclusion and recommendation.