Ciências & Cognição
On-line version ISSN 1806-5821
Abstract
FRANCO DE LIMA, Ricardo. Understanding the atentional mechanisms. Ciênc. cogn. [online]. 2005, vol.6, n.1, pp.113-122. ISSN 1806-5821.
Attention is a crucial function that allows the efficient interaction of the individual with your environment and subserves mental process organization. With attention, we can select which stimuli will be analyzed in details and which will be allowed to guide our behaviour. Recent advances in the studies using methods of neuroimaging and others neurobiological measures have allowed the investigation of the specific mechanisms of the cerebral system of attention. In the present paper, we review several aspects of the attentional mechanisms. First, we present the definition and types of attention (selective, sustained and dividided). Second, we describe the neural basis of attention and some techniques of assessment in researches and clinical context. © Ciçncias & Cognição 2005; Vol. 6: 113-122.
Keywords : attention; assessment; neural basis; neuropsychology.