neurocognitiva

Neurocognitiva is a term used to refer to the study of how brain structure and neurobiological processes support cognitive functions. The field integrates insights from neuroscience, psychology, cognitive science, and neurology to explain perception, attention, memory, language, problem solving, and executive control.

Scope includes normal development and aging, as well as disorders that affect cognition. Researchers investigate the neural circuits and neurochemical processes that underlie cognitive functions, and how these systems interact with emotion and motivation.

Common methods used in neurocognitiva research include neuroimaging (fMRI, PET), electrophysiology (EEG/MEG), structural imaging (MRI), neuropsychological assessments, and computational modeling. Interventions may employ brain stimulation (TMS, tDCS) and cognitive rehabilitation techniques.

Key domains studied in neurocognitiva cover attention, memory (short-term and long-term), language and communication, visuospatial skills, and executive functions (planning, inhibition, cognitive flexibility). Clinically, neurocognitive disorders include major and mild neurocognitive disorders (as described in DSM-5), such as Alzheimer’s disease, vascular cognitive impairment, and dementia following traumatic brain injury.

Applications of neurocognitiva span diagnostic assessment, monitoring of disease progression, informing rehabilitation and education strategies, and evaluating treatment efficacy in clinical trials. The field emphasizes rigorous methodology, replication, and ethical considerations around brain data and patient rights.

See also: neuropsychology, cognitive neuroscience, neurology.