What Is Neuropsychology and Neuropsychological Assessment?

Neuropsychology is the branch of psychology that aims to understand the relationship between the structure and functions of the brain and specific psychological phenomena, and to diagnose and treat the behavioral and cognitive effects caused by neurological disorders. In this context, clinical neuropsychology is an applied science that evaluates the behavioral manifestations of brain dysfunction (Lezak et al., 2004). The curiosity to understand or measure the brain, and especially the relationship between the brain and behavior, dates back to the 19th century. However, educational psychologists, beginning with Binet, developed tests to capture the concept of "intelligence," which was initially difficult to measure. Following these pioneers, mental measurement specialists produced numerous examination techniques to screen army recruits and to assist with educational assessments, which were later incorporated into neuropsychological testing practices. Society's eventual acceptance of educational testing led to the establishment of large-scale, statistically based testing programs that gave neuropsychology a normative perspective for understanding the nature and varieties of mental abilities. In the second half of the 20th century, many experimental psychologists recognized the wealth of information about cognitive functions that could be obtained by studying brain-damaged individuals, especially those with localized lesions. Similarly, neuroscientists recognized the usefulness of cognitive constructs and psychological techniques when studying brain-behavior relationships. During neuropsychological assessment, clinical neuropsychologists typically address a variety of questions and evaluate cognitive functions while remaining aware of both the neurological and psychological significance of their patients' behavior, and while respecting and attending to their patients' differing capacities.