Neuropsychology is a foundational course that explores the intricate relationship between the brain and behavior. It focuses on how the structure and function of the brain influence cognitive processes, emotions, and behavior. This course provides students with a comprehensive overview of the major concepts, methods, and findings in the field of neuropsychology, bridging knowledge from neuroscience, psychology, and clinical practice.
Students will examine the functional anatomy of the central nervous system, including key brain regions and their roles in sensation, perception, memory, language, attention, and executive functions. Emphasis will be placed on understanding how brain damage or dysfunction—due to injury, stroke, neurodevelopmental conditions, or neurodegenerative diseases—affects psychological functioning.
The course also introduces students to neuropsychological assessment techniques and the clinical applications of neuropsychological research. Through case studies and real-world examples, students will gain insight into how neuropsychological knowledge is used in diagnosis, treatment planning, and rehabilitation.
By the end of the course, students will have developed a solid understanding of brain-behavior relationships, a critical appreciation of the role of neuropsychology in clinical and research contexts, and a foundational framework for further study in neuroscience, clinical psychology, or related fields.
- Teacher: Antonio Bova