Psychology MCAT Practice Exam

Which factor is NOT associated with neurocognitive disorders?

1. Attention deficits

2. Impaired social interactions

3. Memory consolidation failures

4. Decreased awareness

The correct answer is: Impaired social interactions

Impaired social interactions are not typically considered a primary factor associated with neurocognitive disorders. Neurocognitive disorders, which include conditions such as dementia and delirium, primarily affect cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and executive functions. Attention deficits are common in individuals with neurocognitive disorders as they struggle to maintain focus and process information effectively. Memory consolidation failures are also a key feature, as these disorders often result in difficulties in forming new memories or retrieving existing ones. Decreased awareness, which can manifest as disorientation or a lack of insight into one's cognitive deficits, is another characteristic seen in such disorders. While some individuals with neurocognitive disorders may exhibit changes in social behavior, these changes stem more from cognitive impairments than from a direct impact on social interaction abilities. Thus, impaired social interactions do not arise as a primary factor in the context of neurocognitive disorders.