Principles and methods of neuropsychological research

Dualism

The philosophical idea that the mind and body are distinct and separate entities.

Materialism

The belief that everything, including mental states, can be explained in terms of physical processes.

Epiphenomenon

A secondary effect or byproduct that arises from a primary phenomenon, such as the mind being a reflection of brain activity.

Cartesian Dualism

The theory proposed by René Descartes that the mind has a non-physical essence that is separate from the physical body.

Reductive Materialism

The theory that mental states are identical to physical states of the brain.

Psychometrics

The field of study concerned with the theory and technique of psychological measurement.

Phenomenology

The philosophical study of the structures of experience and consciousness.

Operant Conditioning

A learning principle where the consequences of a behavior increase or decrease the likelihood of that behavior occurring in the future.

Methodological Behaviorism

The theory stating that psychology should focus solely on observable behavior rather than internal mental states.

Mass Action

A principle stating that the function of a brain region is proportional to the amount of brain tissue available.