Behavioral neurology

Behavioral neurology is the scientific domain dealing with the study of the neurological basis of behavior. It examines the structure and function of the nervous system, and how disorders of these systems – in individuals as well as in populations – affect behavior. In other words, it focuses on how the biological makeup of a person influences their behavior. Behavioral neurologists assess, diagnose, and treat behavioral impairments and other neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, stroke, traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, and neuro-developmental disorders. They also investigate the effects of environmental factors on behavior, such as how stress affects thinking and memory. Behavioral neurologists also study the special pathways in the brain that control voluntary behavior, including those controlling speech, language, movement, vision, and sensation. They use different types of imaging, such as electroencephalography (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), as well as neuropsychological tests, to measure how different parts of the brain are working together to produce an individual's behavior. By integrating knowledge of neuroscience, neurology, psychology, and psychiatry, behavioral neurologists strive to provide the best care possible for individuals with neurological conditions. Through their research and treatment of signs and symptoms of these conditions, they hope to improve the lives of those affected, as well as improve our understanding of the brain’s structure and functioning. Behavioral neurology is an incredibly broad and challenging domain, as it involves the integration of a wide variety of scientific disciplines. It is an essential part of understanding the complexities of the brain and its corresponding behaviors.