Consciousness, Memory, and Intelligence

Consciousness, orientation, and memory are three important cognitive processes, and dysfunction in these processes have been used to characterize many brain-based disorders (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease, major depressive disorder, dementia). Herein, this chapter will discuss the complex biological and philosophical underpinnings of these three facets of cognition: consciousness, orientation, and memory. Historically, cognitive dysfunction within these three processes has been well defined. However, further exploration is needed regarding the association between impaired consciousness, orientation, and memory and the development and progression of brain-based disorders. Effective clinical evaluation of these processes is integral for early prognosis of many mental health disorders.