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The Secret Life of the Grown-up Brain
Barbara Strauch
The Surprising Talents of the Middle-Aged Mind
Viking Adult
April 2010
On Sale: April 15, 2010
256 pages ISBN: 0670020710 EAN: 9780670020713 Hardcover
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Non-Fiction
For many years, scientists thought that the human brain
simply decayed over time and its dying cells led to memory
slips, fuzzy logic, negative thinking, and even depression.
But new research from neuroscientists and psychologists
suggests that, in fact, the brain reorganizes, improves in
important functions, and even helps us adopt a more
optimistic outlook in middle age. Growth of white matter
and brain connectors allow us to recognize patterns faster,
make better judgments, and find unique solutions to
problems. Scientists call these traits cognitive expertise
and they reach their highest levels in middle age. In her impeccably researched book, science writer Barbara
Strauch explores the latest findings that demonstrate,
through the use of technology such as brain scans, that the
middle-aged brain is more flexible and more capable than
previously thought. For the first time, long-term studies
show that our view of middle age has been misleading and
incomplete. By detailing exactly the normal, healthy brain
functions over time, Strauch also explains how its optimal
processes can be maintained. Part scientific survey, part
how-to guide, The Secret Life of the Grown-Up Brain is a
fascinating glimpse at our surprisingly talented middle-
aged minds.
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