Neuropsychological reductionism and a possible solution toward clinical and experimental measurement of real world cognitive function and dysfunction : a case study using virtual reality within a functional magnetic resonance imaging bore
Part of : Hellenic journal of psychology ; Vol.1, No.3, 2004, pages 326-348
Issue:
Pages:
326-348
Abstract:
A major challenge before clinical neuropsychology as an applied science is to adopt an approach that will move away from neuropsychological reductionism, while simultaneously providing clinical and experimental measurement of realworld cognitive function and dysfunction that can be related directly to functional neuroanatomy. As an example, we created a computerized virtual environment in which we could ascertain the functional neuroanatomy involved in a simple experiment of navigation learning and memory. To do so, we adopted VR technology that was specially chosen for its compatibility with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) of brain activity. The resulting VR-fMRI experiments allowed us to relate real-world, albeit virtual, measures of navigation learning and memory with the functional neuroanatomy associated with specific processes of navigation memory. Results are discussed within the context of ecological validity and the need to create neuropsychological measures that are germane to the real-world settings within which patients actually function.
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Subject (LC):
Keywords:
ecological validity, fMRI, human spatial navigation, virtual reality
Notes:
Issues in neuropsychology
