Neuropsychology of Women

Women have long been underrepresented in scientific research, which has limited our understanding of how they may be uniquely impacted by various medical, psychological, and neurocognitive conditions. Due to this limitation, neuropsychological training and practice has historically fallen short of acknowledging potential sex and gender differences and effectively incorporating this knowledge into evaluations and treatment recommendations. Fortunately, in recent years, contemporary research has begun to draw more focus on unique biopsychosocial factors impacting the epidemiology, presentation, neurocognitive profile, and treatment implications for women with neuropsychological concerns. In an age of increased focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the field of neuropsychology, compounded by the background of everchanging socio-political factors in the U.S. either supporting or opposing this focus, it is crucial that clinical neuropsychologists gain the knowledge and skills to provide individualized, gender-informed care to women patients. It is imperative for neuropsychology as a specialty to champion this initiative as leading experts in the intersection of cognition, mental health and disorders pertaining to the brain, which has the potential to inform clinical practice and research in related fields such as medicine and neuroscience.

Neuropsychology of Women: Considerations for Clinical Care & Research provides an overview of the current research-informed knowledge base on how different conditions encountered in neuropsychological practice uniquely present in women patients. Chapters are authored by some of the foremost neuropsychological researchers and clinicians of today, spanning topics inclusive of both those impacting both genders, with a focus on the understudied and unique clinical implications related to women, as well as those disproportionately affecting women. These range from specific neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and movement disorders, to acute events like stroke and traumatic brain injury, to chronic conditions including autoimmune disorders and epilepsy, all consolidating the literature into a concise and accessible format. Chapters focusing on chronic health conditions and issues relating to pregnancy and menopause supplement those focused on neurological conditions to help clinical providers conceptualize patients through a comprehensive neuropsychological lens and to help researchers understand where opportunities lie for further exploration. For those new to the field of neuropsychology, including students and trainees, Neuropsychology of Women: Considerations for Clinical Care & Research extends beyond traditional texts to incorporate issues of DEI through an intentional and organic approach. This is the first book of its kind in over a decade and the most comprehensive resource available to clinical neuropsychologists seeking to provide the highest standard of inclusive practice to women patients.