As cognitive models of behavior continue to evolve the mechanics of cognitive exceptionality
with its range of individual variations in abilities and performance remains a challenge to
psychology. Reaching beyond the standard view of exceptional cognition equaling superior
intelligence the Handbook of Individual Differences in Cognition examines the latest findings
from psychobiology cognitive psychology and neuroscience for a comprehensive
state-of-the-art volume. Breaking down cognition in terms of attentional mechanisms working
memory and higher-order processing contributors discuss general models of cognition and
personality. Chapter authors build on this foundation as they revisit current theory in such
areas as processing effort and general arousal and examine emerging methods in individual
differences research including new data on the role of brain plasticity in cognitive function.
The possibility of a unified theory of individual differences in cognitive ability and the
extent to which these variables may account for real-world competencies are emphasized and
commentary chapters offer suggestions for further research priorities. Coverage highlights
include: - The relationship between cognition and temperamental traits. - The development of
autobiographical memory. - Anxiety and attentional control. - The neurophysiology of gender
differences in cognitive ability. - Intelligence and cognitive control. - Individual
differences in dual task coordination. - The effects of subclinical depression on attention
memory and reasoning. - Mood as a shaper of information. Researchers clinicians and graduate
students in psychology and cognitive sciences including clinical psychology and
neuropsychology personality and social psychology neuroscience and education will find the
Handbook of Individual Differences in Cognition an expert guide to the field as it currently
stands and to its agenda for the future.
