Abstract
Traditionally, studies emphasize differences in neural measures between pathological and healthy groups, assuming a binary distinction between the groups, and a linear relationship between neural measures and symptoms. Here, we present four examples that show a continuous relation across the divide of normal and pathological states between neural measures and mental functions. This relation can be characterized by a non-linear inverted-U shaped curve. Along this curve, mid-range or average expression of a neural measure is associated with optimal function of a mental feature (in healthy states), whereas extreme expression, either high or low, is associated with sub-optimal function, and occurs in different neural disorders. Neural expression between the optimal or intermediate and pathological or extreme values is associated with sub-optimal function and at-risk mental states. Thus, this model of neuro-mental relationship can be summarized as “average is good, extremes are bad”. By focussing on neuro-mental relationships, this model can facilitate the transition of psychiatry from a categorical to a dimensional and individualized approach needed in the era of precision medicine.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 11-25 |
Number of pages | 15 |
Journal | Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews |
Volume | 104 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Sept 2019 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Inverted-U shape model
- Neuro-mental relationship
- Optimal
- Psychiatric diagnosis
- RDoC
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Neuropsychology and Physiological Psychology
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Behavioral Neuroscience