Syllabus: brain functions concerning behaviour; brain dysfunctions concerning behaviour; brain changes (plasticity, development and degeneration, recovery and treatment); methods of brain study functions and brain dysfunctions; influence of biology (e.g. genes) and environment (e.g. upbringing); changes across the entire lifespan; interindividual differences.
The course covers normal and abnormal life span development of (neuro)behavioural functions (e.g., higher-level functioning including attention and executive functioning). Some of the most prevalent (neuro)behavioural disorders (e.g., ASD, anxiety and depression) will be discussed.
Risk factors and factors modulating neurobehavioral functioning (such as neurotransmitters, genetics, and hormonal influences) are also considered. Students will critically read publications and judge experimental designs, research methods, theories and new developments.