Neuropsychology's social landscape: Common ground with social neuroscience

Abstract

Looking back 25 years into neuropsychology's past coincides almost perfectly with the birth of social neuroscience as a discipline. Social neuroscience aims to identify the biological bases of social behavior through multilevel analyses of neural, cognitive, and social processes. Neuropsychology, on the other hand, aspires to understand brain-behavior relationships more generally. Given that much of human behavior comprises social interactions, the goals, theories, methods, and findings derived from social neuroscience are likely to have bearing on the issues and interests of neuropsychologists. This review summarizes some of the main developments that have emerged from social neuroscience and their relevance to neuropsychology. Applications of social neuroscience principles are presented in the context of brain insult, assessment, and intervention. Recommendations are made for improving neuropsychological approaches to the evaluation of social cognition and competence. In closing, a discussion of the challenges and possible future directions for the 2 disciplines is offered. (PsycINFO Database Record