ABSTRACT

Neuropsychology considers the relationship between the brain and behavior, and it can be split down into two broad paradigms: neuroimaging of the brain and “classical” neuropsychology, which considers the performance of people with diseased and disordered brains. This chapter focuses on classical neuropsychology but does so in the context of advances in neuroimaging. Theories of human memory are built around models derived from testing patients, and so the modern memory researcher needs to have a grasp on neuropsychological methods. We will show that there are specific considerations in dealing with people with memory disorders, such as the importance of using advanced designs and statistical tools when conducting single case studies using special populations. We will also consider group studies and provide a reference guide for designing neuropsychological experiments. Then, we will discuss key design issues, like the differences between long-term and short-term memory, recall and recognition, recollection, and familiarity. Finally, we ask what classical neuropsychology can contribute given the rise in neuroimaging methods.