The present paper argues that the development of a new methodology in studying the brain has resulted in a change of our views on the way it works, has seen the emergence of new ideas, and a considerable modification of traditionally accepted theories. The most significant are neuroplasticity, negative activity network (NAT), the nature of aphasic disorders, and the approach to the localization of brain functions. New brain imaging techniques have confirmed also the ability to change the neuronal circuits by mental force. Moreover, new techniques have brought about a rise in new methods for both the diagnosis and rehabilitation of individuals with various brain disorders. Most valuable in this respect has proved to be neurofeedback. We have concentrated on the most important contributions of Prof. Pąchalska in the implementation and development of these new ideas on brain functioning. We also emphasize the fact that her theoretical considerations are firmly based upon her extensive (forty years) work with brain damaged patients.
Poland’s inhabitants have often expressed disbelief and negative attitudes toward social isolation, combined with restlessness. This is due to a tendency to discount troubling informa tion while facing the unknown and counter-argue against information that causes discomfort and fear. This tendency helps humans to maintain hope and well-being. The study aimed to determine if Polish citizens tend to downplay or even deny danger when faced with a death threat. The study comprised 58 adults – 46 females 12 males, aged 21 to 49. The participants were asked to answer 12 questions defining their beliefs and attitudes towards the COVID-19 pandemic threat and its consequences. The subjects gave answers on the 5-point Likert scale, from "definitely not" to "definitely yes". The findings of the present study show that a considerable number of the participants tend to exhibit an optimistic bias. This is reflected in their direct statements and in the lack of congruence of their opinions. They do feel the threat of becoming ill but also seem to believe it need not affect them personally. They are also relatively optimistic about the outcomes of the pandemic. At the same time, they realize that COVID-19 may lead to severe psychological, neurological, and mental disorders. The study confirmed a tendency to deny the threat that can pose a severe risk to health and psychological well-being. This is a manifestation of an optimism bias that has its roots in the way the human brain works. The participants did express concerns about the future but at the same time hoped that life after the pandemic would return to normal. It reflects a benevolent facet of self-deception since it makes it possible to cope with highly threatening and impossible to control events.
A number of studies show that both children and adults exhibit difficulties with problem-solving tasks. In fact, only one-third of adults reach the formal operational stage. Coaching such tasks in everybody’s language proves to be helpful only if the situation described is close to life events. The presented study confirmed the improvement in the thematic version of the Wason Test both in pupils and university students, albeit being far from spectacular. The authors suggest distinguishing a bounded type of thinking characterized by highly schematic, mechanistic, and automated thinking. They argue that it results both in educational and everyday failures.
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