Neuropsychology

Performance validity concerns whether cognitive test results provide an interpretable representation of the person’s performance during the evaluation. Neuropsychologists may use stand-alone or embedded performance-validity measures together with behavioral observations and other assessment information. A failed or unusual validity result does not by itself explain why performance was invalid and does not independently establish malingering.

Neuropsychological testing can characterize cognitive strengths and weaknesses involving memory, attention, processing speed, executive function, language, and other abilities after a brain injury. Findings may be considered alongside the injury history, neurological examinations, imaging, prior functioning, treatment records, and recovery course. Neuropsychological results can document patterns of cognitive and behavioral functioning, but they do not by themselves establish the medical cause of those findings or the full consequences of an injury.

Pediatric neuropsychology considers cognitive, behavioral, and emotional functioning in the context of a child’s neurological status and development. An evaluation may include developmental history, school performance, cognitive and academic testing, attention, memory, language, executive functioning, behavior, and relevant medical or neurological conditions. Interpretation uses age-appropriate developmental expectations and normative information rather than applying adult standards to a child.