![Sample our Behavioral Sciences journals, sign in here to start your access, latest two full volumes FREE to you for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/110801/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Behavioral-Sciences.jpg"})
Abstract
The developmental sequences of attention and memory were studied by utilizing normative data derived from the neuropsychological battery named NEUROPSI ATTENTION AND MEMORY. A sample of 521 Spanish-speaking individuals, aged 6 to 85 years, participated in this study. In the adult sample, educational level ranged from 0 to 22 years of education. Data from subtests measuring orientation, attention and concentration, executive functions, working memory, immediate and delayed verbal memory, and immediate and delayed visual memory were included. The factor structure of the analyzed battery is presented. The effects of age and education on this structure were analyzed. Results suggested that although attention and memory are related, their developmental sequences are separated from one another. During childhood, the development of selective and sustained attention, attentional-working memory, and executive functions showed a fast improvement in performance. Development of verbal memory and place and person orientation showed a slower increment in scores. In the adult sample it was found that factors related to memory are sensitive to age, whereas those related to attention and executive functions are sensitive to education. The consideration of both the developmental sequence, as well as differential effects of education, can improve the sensitivity and specificity of neuropsychological measures, allowing early diagnosis of cognitive dysfunction and implementation of adequate rehabilitation programs.
This research was partially supported by a grant given to the Laboratory of Psychophysiology and Neuropsychology (Dr. Feggy Ostrosky-Solis), National University of Mexico, by the Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACYT-38570-H) and Programa de Apoyo a Proyectos de Investigación e Innovación Teconlógica (PAPIIT IN -308500).
Notes
This research was partially supported by a grant given to the Laboratory of Psychophysiology and Neuropsychology (Dr. Feggy Ostrosky-Solis), National University of Mexico, by the Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACYT-38570-H) and Programa de Apoyo a Proyectos de Investigación e Innovación Teconlógica (PAPIIT IN -308500).