An introduction to clinical neuropsychology through case studies of adults that have suffered brain damage, this engaging collection conveys a sense of the courage, humor, and determination to triumph over disability that many "ordinary people" demonstrate when coping with the extraordinary stress of a brain disorder. Two introductory chapters on basic neuroanatomy, neuropsychological concepts, and assessment are followed by fourteen chapters focusing on different disorders. Each chapter features sections on background theory and neuropathology, in addition to a detailed case study. Some of the chapters highlight the clinical assessment and rehabilitation of disorders such as head injury, epilepsy, aphasia, neglect, and dementia, while others emphasize research-based assessment of less common disorders, such as amnesia and the inability to recognize faces. Common neuropsychological tests are described, and ethical, cultural, and other issues that confront health professionals working with neurological patients are discussed. This book is intended for students of clinical and neuropsychology, health professionals treating neurological patients, neurological patients and their families, and lay readers curious about the mind and brain.
For several years, I have used this book for an undergraduate class I teach on Neuropsychology. The chapters, which each focus on a distinct type of brain damage or disorder, are well written and a relatively easy read. They also do an excellent job of covering the science of what causes each type of damage and why the damage impacts behavior the way that it does. My students seem to really enjoy each chapter and Ogden's discussion of her patients stimulate a great deal of discussion in class. I find Ogden's coverage to be more comprehensive and detailed than Oliver Sacks but she is certainly no less interesting to read.
I wish she had more books out there!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
Ms. Ogden's writing has a touch of Oliver Sacks-like quality. Not only does she describe each patient's clinical assessment in terms of scores on neuropsychological testing batteries, but she also describes the processes by which the patients cope with their medical problems and how they affect their lives. The patients are seen as human beings overcoming difficulties, rather than anonymous cases. A great book for those interested in clinical neuropsychology. This book was also be very useful as a text book, as it describes medically what's happening to each patient as well as how it affects them behaviorally on neuropsychological testing and socially in their everyday lives.
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