AbstractsComputer Science

Neuropsychology of Semantic Memory: Theories, Models, and Tests

by Linda Laurila




Institution: University of Skövde
Department:
Year: 2007
Keywords: Semantic memory; concrete concepts; category-specific impairments; semantic features; conceptual hierarchies; Natural Sciences; Computer and Information Science; Human Computer Interaction; Naturvetenskap; Data- och informationsvetenskap; Människa-datorinteraktion (interaktionsdesign); TECHNOLOGY; Information technology; Computer science; Cognitive science; TEKNIKVETENSKAP; Informationsteknik; Datavetenskap; Kognitionsvetenskap; Cognitive Science - Study Programme; Kognitionsvetenskapligt program; Cognitive Science; Kognitionsvetenskap; teknik; Technology
Record ID: 1333546
Full text PDF: http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:his:diva-67


Abstract

Semantic memory is part of the long-term memory system, and there are several theories concerning this type of memory. Some of these will be described in this essay. There are also several types of neuropsychological semantic memory deficits. For example, test results have shown that patients tend to have more difficulties naming living than nonliving things, and one probable explanation is that living things are more dependent on sensory than on functional features. Description of concrete concepts is a new test of semantic memory, in which cueing is used, both to capture the maximum performance of patients, and to give insight into the access versus storage problem. The theoretical ideas and empirical results relating to this new test will be described in detail. Furthermore, other tests of semantic memory that have been commonly used will also be briefly described. In conclusion semantic memory is a complex cognitive system that needs to be studied further.