History of neuropsychology in the Netherlands

Abstract

The history of the development of neuropsychology in The Netherlands is described. First some early descriptions of the effects of brain lesions on behavior are mentioned. Subsequently the remarkable lack of interest in neuropsychology in the 19th century is described, contrasting with the important changes in France, Germany, and England. Neuropsychology began to blossom in the second half of the 20th century. In the early 1980s neuropsychology courses were developed and a series of textbooks was published. In the 1990s chairs for neuropsychology were founded at most universities. A separate organization for professionals was created, as well as a curriculum for becoming a specialized professional neuropsychologist.