As cognitive models of behavior continue to evolve, the mechanics of
cognitive exceptionality, with its range of individual variations in
abilities and performance, remains a challenge to psychology. Reaching
beyond the standard view of exceptional cognition equaling superior
intelligence, the Handbook of Individual Differences in Cognition
examines the latest findings from psychobiology, cognitive psychology,
and neuroscience, for a comprehensive state-of-the-art volume.
Breaking down cognition in terms of attentional mechanisms, working
memory, and higher-order processing, contributors discuss general models
of cognition and personality. Chapter authors build on this foundation
as they revisit current theory in such areas as processing effort and
general arousal and examine emerging methods in individual differences
research, including new data on the role of brain plasticity in
cognitive function. The possibility of a unified theory of individual
differences in cognitive ability and the extent to which these variables
may account for real-world competencies are emphasized, and commentary
chapters offer suggestions for further research priorities.
Coverage highlights include:
- The relationship between cognition and temperamental traits.
- The development of autobiographical memory.
- Anxiety and attentional control.
- The neurophysiology of gender differences in cognitive ability.
- Intelligence and cognitive control.
- Individual differences in dual task coordination.
- The effects of subclinical depression on attention, memory, and
reasoning.
- Mood as a shaper of information.
Researchers, clinicians, and graduate students in psychology and
cognitive sciences, including clinical psychology and neuropsychology,
personality and social psychology, neuroscience, and education, will
find the Handbook of Individual Differences in Cognition an expert
guide to the field as it currently stands and to its agenda for the
future.
