The Influence of Work and Occupation on Brain Development

doi:10.1017/CBO9780511499722.016

14 - The Influence of Work and Occupation on Brain Development

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 17 July 2009

Neil Charness

Edited by

Paul B. Baltes ,

Patricia A. Reuter-Lorenz and

Frank Rösler

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Neil Charness: Affiliation:
Professor of Psychology, Department of Psychology Florida State University, Tallahassee, USA
Paul B. Baltes: Affiliation:
Max-Planck-Institut für Bildungsforschung, Berlin
Patricia A. Reuter-Lorenz: Affiliation:
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
Frank Rösler: Affiliation:
Philipps-Universität Marburg, Germany

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Summary

ABSTRACT

Despite its importance, there has been relatively little research on the role of occupational and work environment influences on brain development. I assess some of the existing literature, drawing inferences based on the probable relationship between cognition, and both brain structure and function, and centering particularly on the issue of adult aging. I review research focusing on occupational complexity and intellectual functioning, specific effects of particular occupations on certain brain regions, and protective effects of occupations on the brain during aging and the development of dementia.

INTRODUCTION

In a popular joke, Sherlock Holmes, the famous detective and Dr. Watson, his constant companion, go camping, and they pitch their tent under the stars. During the night, Holmes wakes his companion and says: “Watson, look up and tell me what you see.” Watson says: “I see millions of stars.” Holmes says: “What do you deduce from that?” Watson says: “If a few of those have planets, it's quite likely there are some planets like Earth, and if there are a few planets like Earth out there, there might also be life elsewhere in the universe. What do you deduce, Holmes?” Holmes replies: “Watson, you idiot, someone stole our tent!”

Sometimes it is difficult to see what is before our noses. Many of the people reading these words spend 43+ hours per week (if living in the United States) working in a highly structured occupation that provides them with the resources to live in a modern society.

Type: Chapter
Information: Lifespan Development and the Brain
The Perspective of Biocultural Co-Constructivism
, pp. 306 - 325

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/CBO9780511499722.016 [Opens in a new window]

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Print publication year: 2006

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