Neuropsychology, Behavior, and Social Services

Abstract

Defined as the relation between behavior and brain function (Kolb & Wishaw, 2008, p. 2), neuropsychology has been in the news frequently as an alternate way to view deviant behavior. The field of study dates back to the 17th century with Descartes as a major advocate. Until recently, treatment options have largely been limited to the use of psychotropic medications, many of which were not very effective for the disorders in its purview. More recently, neuropsychology and the neurosciences have attracted renewed attention with the advent of gene and stem cell therapies. The theories inherent in neuropsychology are useful for a variety of psychological challenges including memory, sleep, attention disorders, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's (Kolb & Wishaw, 2008). Additionally, researchers and legal analysts focusing on criminal behavior have looked to neuropsychology as a defense for criminal behavior. Our interest in neuropsychology is based on its value as a model for creating and defining treatment includi...