What is 'attention' and what is the best way to understand it? Taking its cue from this key question, this book presents a detailed overview of cognitive, neuropsychological and connectionist methodologies in attention research.

What is 'attention' and what is the best way to understand it? Taking its cue from this key question, Attention: A Cognitive Neuropsychological Approach presents a detailed overview of cognitive, neuropsychological and connectionist methodologies in attention research. Sub-domains of the topic, such as focused vs divided attention, executive functioning and vigilance are discussed both from a cognitive perspective and subsequently in terms of neuropsychological work relating to disorders in that area. Alert to the current research trends, the author offers a critical assessment of the use and integration of connectionist modelling for an understanding of attention. In addition a concluding chapter offers a speculative overview of emerging research and its implications for future attention research. Clear and engaging throughout, this book will be ideal for undergraduates looking to understand this topic for the first time.

Introduction. Focussed Attention. Disorders of Focussed Attention. Divided Attention. Disorders of Divided Attention. Vigilance. Disorders of Vigilance. Control Processes. On Being DYS-Executive: Disorders of Attention Control. Connectionist Approaches to Attention. Future Directions.