Neuropsychology is a subspeciality of psychology that is committed to understanding the relationship between the brain and behavior. It assesses an individual's cognitive functioning when they have experienced changes to their memory, attention, language, visual awareness, or reasoning skills. The changes may be the result of certain medical, neurological, psychological or genetic causes. A neuropsychology exam is used to assess the functioning of:
- Attention and concentration
- Processing speed
- Language
- Learning and memory
- Reasoning and problem-solving
- Visuospatial abilities
- Motor functioning
Doctors are able to look at scans and images of the brain, which show its structure; however, pictures do not always capture how well the brain is functioning. Tests administered during a neuropsychological assessment evaluate an individual’s strengths and weaknesses in addition to how well the brain performs specific tasks such as recalling information. Results of an evaluation can help detect the presence of cognitive dysfunction which can provide clarity regarding diagnosis.