what is neuropsychology

Neuropsychology is a branch of psychology that studies how a persons cognition and behavior are related to the brain and the rest of the nervous system. It combines neurology, the study of the nervous system, with psychology, the study of the mind and how it affects behavior. Neuropsychologists look at how a brain injury or illness can impact daily life, including cognitive, social, physical, and emotional aspects of behavior. Clinical neuropsychologists assess people who have had sudden injuries, such as a concussion or a stroke, or chronic neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. They perform tests and analyze the results to determine how well the brain is functioning and why someone might have difficulty in a particular part of their life. Neuropsychologists are not medical doctors, but they work closely with medical doctors, such as neurologists and neuropsychiatrists, to diagnose and treat patients. Cognitive neuropsychologists conduct research that helps further the field of neuropsychology.