Book contents
- Cambridge Textbook Of Neuroscience for Psychiatrists
- Reviews
- Cambridge Textbook of Neuroscience for Psychiatrists
- Copyright page
- Contents
- Contributors
- Introduction
- 1 Cells
- 2 Neurotransmitters and Receptors
- 3 Basic Techniques in Neuroscience
- 4 Neuroanatomy
- 5 Neural Circuits
- 5.1 Appetite
- 5.2 Sleep
- 5.3 Sex and Sex Hormones
- 5.4 Violence and Aggression
- 5.5 Nociception and Pain
- 5.6 The Motor System and Movement Disorders
- 5.7 Computational Models of Learning
- 5.8 Habit Formation
- 5.9 Reward, Pleasure and Motivation
- 5.10 Emotion
- 5.11 Perception
- 5.12 Attention
- 5.13 Apathy, Anhedonia and Fatigue
- 5.14 Memory
- 5.15 Fronto-Executive Functions
- 5.16 Empathy and Theory of Mind
- 5.17 Language
- 5.18 Brain Networks and Dysconnectivity
- 6 Modulators
- 7 Genetics
- 8 Neurodevelopment and Neuroplasticity
- 9 Integrated Neurobiology of Specific Syndromes and Treatments
- 10 Neurodegeneration
- Index
- References
5.16 - Empathy and Theory of Mind
from 5 - Neural Circuits
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 08 November 2023
Book contents
- Cambridge Textbook Of Neuroscience for Psychiatrists
- Reviews
- Cambridge Textbook of Neuroscience for Psychiatrists
- Copyright page
- Contents
- Contributors
- Introduction
- 1 Cells
- 2 Neurotransmitters and Receptors
- 3 Basic Techniques in Neuroscience
- 4 Neuroanatomy
- 5 Neural Circuits
- 5.1 Appetite
- 5.2 Sleep
- 5.3 Sex and Sex Hormones
- 5.4 Violence and Aggression
- 5.5 Nociception and Pain
- 5.6 The Motor System and Movement Disorders
- 5.7 Computational Models of Learning
- 5.8 Habit Formation
- 5.9 Reward, Pleasure and Motivation
- 5.10 Emotion
- 5.11 Perception
- 5.12 Attention
- 5.13 Apathy, Anhedonia and Fatigue
- 5.14 Memory
- 5.15 Fronto-Executive Functions
- 5.16 Empathy and Theory of Mind
- 5.17 Language
- 5.18 Brain Networks and Dysconnectivity
- 6 Modulators
- 7 Genetics
- 8 Neurodevelopment and Neuroplasticity
- 9 Integrated Neurobiology of Specific Syndromes and Treatments
- 10 Neurodegeneration
- Index
- References
Summary
In order to comprehend the intricacies of human cognition and social interaction, it is crucial to explore the underlying cognitive processes that support them. This chapter delves into one of the core cognitive abilities – the ‘theory of mind’ (ToM), which allows individuals to infer the thoughts, beliefs and intentions of others. ToM plays a vital role in understanding the complexities of social interaction and contributes to our ability to empathise and communicate effectively. Within the context of psychiatry, investigating ToM impairments is particularly important as they are associated with several mental disorders, such as autism spectrum and schizophrenia. By examining these impairments, researchers aim to uncover the specific neuronal networks and cognitive mechanisms that underlie social cognitive abilities, as well as identify commonalities and differences between patient groups. Gaining a deeper understanding of ToM and its role in various disorders will not only provide valuable insight into the complexities of human cognition but also guide the development of more effective interventions and treatments for affected individuals.
- Type
- Chapter
- Information
- Cambridge Textbook of Neuroscience for Psychiatrists , pp. 263 - 270Publisher: Cambridge University PressPrint publication year: 2023
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