An Introduction to Neuropsychology

Neuropsychology is a subfield of psychology that examines the relationship between the brain and behaviour. It seeks to understand how brain functionality contributes to normal and abnormal behaviour.
This field combines knowledge from various other scientific disciplines such as medicine, biology, and psychology. It focuses specifically on how injuries or illness of the brain affect cognitive functions and behaviours.
The main areas of focus in Neuropsychology are cognitive neuroscience (which explores how the brain enables the mind) and clinical neuropsychology (which diagnoses and treats people who have brain diseases).
Cognitive Neuropsychologists often work with healthy individuals to understand functioning of the brain, employing strategies such as observing behaviour during certain tasks or using brain scanning techniques. They aim to establish ‘norms’ against which abnormal behaviour can be compared.
Clinical Neuropsychologists, on the other hand, apply the understanding gained from cognitive neuropsychology to the assessment and treatment of individuals with brain injuries or illnesses.
Neuropsychology helps to treat mental illnesses by understanding the biological basis of these illnesses, thereby developing biological interventions for them. Examples could be drugs to address chemical imbalances in schizophrenic individuals.
The field places a high degree of focus on the neuroplasticity of the brain i.e. its capacity to remodel itself in response to changes in the environment, behaviour, or injury.
Understanding of child development in neuropsychology clarifies how the brain changes during growth. This knowledge assists in the early detection and treatment of potentially debilitating concerns.
Lastly, neuropsychologists help legal professionals understand the extent of brain damage, if any, and its potential influence on criminal behaviour, thus playing a crucial role in legal matters.

Overall, the study of Neuropsychology provides a comprehensive understanding of the human mind and how it shapes our behaviour, offering profound insights for therapies and overall mental wellbeing.