Course Description
Theories of brain function in the human. Methods of detecting abnormal functioning and the localization of such abnormal functioning by behavioral methods. Possible etiologies of such lesions.
Athena Title
NEUROPSYCH ASSESS
Prerequisite
PSYC 8300
Semester Course Offered
Not offered on a regular basis.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
This course is an advanced course in neuropsychological assessment that is primarily a seminar format. It is designed to give students an overview of the fundamental areas pertinent to human neuropsychology and neuropsychological assessment. This includes: 1. descriptions and theory of brain function 2. anatomical localization of function where possible or appropriate 3. descriptions of neurological and neurobehavioral syndromes 4. assessment of those clinical syndromes 5. exposure to classic neuropsychological assessment Students will come away with knowledge of the relationship between brain function and behavioral correlates of those functions, as well as a knowledge base from which to evaluate neuropsychological performance. Students are expected to have a working knowledge of neuroanatomy and basic nervous system function PRIOR to taking this course.
Topical Outline
INTRODUCTION BASICS OF NEUROPSYCHOLOGY AND BRAIN/BEHAVIOR RELATIONSHIPS: -- Utility and rationale for neuropsychological assessment -- Overview of the structure of the brain -- Functional relationships: Posterior areas of the brain -- Functional relationships: Anterior areas of the brain ASSESSMENT OF COGNITIVE FUNCTION -- Neurological Assessment, overview -- Measurement methods, deficit measurement -- Procedures of the Neuropsychological examination -- Interpretation of neuropsychological data: an overview -- Abstract Reasoning -- Memory -- Aphasia -- Spatial Abilities -- Motor Skills ASSESSMENT AND UNDERSTANDING OF NEUROBEHAVIORAL DISORDERS -- Head injury -- Vascular disorders -- Degenerative Disorders -- Movement Disorders -- Epilepsy/Seizures -- Multiple Sclerosis -- Toxicity, Drugs -- Neoplasms