Short description:

Introducing Neuropsychology investigates the functions of the brain and explores the relationships between brain systems and human behaviour, in a user-friendly textbook that draws on both established findings and cutting edge research.

Long description:

Introducing Neuropsychology, Second Edition investigates the functions of the brain and explores the relationships between brain systems and human behaviour. The material is presented in a jargon-free, easy to understand manner and aims to guide students new to the field through current areas of research.

Following a brief history of the discipline and a description of methods in neuropsychology, the remaining chapters review traditional and recent research findings. Both cognitive and clinical aspects of neuropsychology are addressed to illustrate the advances scientists are making (on many fronts) in their quest to understand brain - behaviour relationships in both normal and disturbed functioning. The rapid developments in neuropsychology and cognitive neuroscience resulting from traditional research methods as well as new brain-imaging techniques are presented in a clear and straightforward way. Each chapter has been fully revised and updated and new brain-imaging data are incorporated throughout, especially in the later chapters on Emotion and Motivation, and Executive Functions. As in the first edition, key topics are dealt with in separate focus boxes, and ?interim comment? sections allow the reader a chance to ?take stock? at regular intervals. 

The book assumes no particular expertise on the reader?s part in either psychology or brain physiology. Thus, it will be of great interest not only to those studying neuropsychology and cognitive neuroscience, but also to medical and nursing students, and indeed anyone who is interested in learning about recent progress in understanding brain?behaviour relationships.

"Introduction to Neuropsychology 2^nd Edition provides a concise overview to the diverse and fascinating topics within this field. The chapters are up-to-date and well referenced, and theoretical debates are explained in meaningful terms; particularly welcome are the contributions from neuroimaging and the stimulating impact this has made to neuropsychology in general. A highly recommended read." - Dr Paul Richardson, Brain, Behaviour & Cognition Group, Sheffield Hallam University, UK

"This text serves as an excellent introduction to the fascinating field of neuropsychology and it is highly suitable for undergraduate students of psychology and/or neuroscience. The authors have endeavoured to avoid unnecessary use of obscure terms, and, where necessary, such terms are clearly explained. As a result, the book is eminently readable. I highly recommend it." - Jessica Fish, MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, Cambridge, UK

Table of Contents:

1.The Foundations of Neuropsychology. 2. Methods in Neuropsychology. 3.Lateralisation. Somatosensation and Neuroplasticity. 4. Motor Control and Movement Disorders. 5. Language and the Brain. 6.Memory and Amnesia. 7.Visual Object Recognition and Spatial Processing. 8.Attention and Consciousness. 9.Emotion and Motivation. 10.Executive Functions. Appendix: A Primer of Nervous System and Function.