Neurobehavioural methods, effects and prevention: workers' human rights are why the field matters for developing
1Occupational and Environmental Health Research Unit, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town Health Sciences Faculty, Anzio Rd., Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa. leslie.london@uct.ac.za
Neurotoxicology
|December 8, 2009
Summary
Neurobehavioural research is scarce in developing nations, hindering the identification of toxic chemical effects. Framing this as a human rights issue can advocate for essential occupational and environmental health and safety.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Neuroscience
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Developing countries face significant burdens from established and emerging neurotoxic chemicals.
- Underdiagnosis of neurobehavioural effects is prevalent due to limited resources, diagnostics, and competing health issues.
- Existing research on neurobehavioural methods and effects is notably lacking in these regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the critical need for neurobehavioural research in developing countries.
- To underscore the impact of neurotoxic agents on occupational and environmental health.
- To advocate for increased focus on neurobehavioural studies within a human rights framework.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on neurobehavioural research gaps in developing countries.
- Analysis of factors contributing to underdiagnosis of neurotoxicity.
- Examination of the human rights context for occupational and environmental health.
Main Results:
- Significant underreporting of neurobehavioural morbidity and mortality.
- Identification of systemic barriers to neurobehavioural research and diagnosis.
- Strong correlation between occupational/environmental health and human rights obligations.
Conclusions:
- Neurobehavioural research is crucial for addressing hidden health burdens in developing nations.
- Integrating a human rights perspective strengthens the case for prioritizing neurobehavioural health and safety.
- Addressing these issues is essential for fulfilling international human rights commitments.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Humanistic Psychology
Humanistic psychology emerged in the mid-20th century as a response to the deterministic and pessimistic nature of behaviorism and psychoanalysis. While behaviorism focused on observable behaviors influenced by the environment and psychoanalysis delved into unconscious motivations, both theories suggested that human actions lacked free will. In contrast, humanistic psychology offers a perspective that emphasizes the innate potential for goodness and growth within every individual.
This approach...
This approach...
01:21Behavior Modification
Behavioral approaches have often been criticized for ignoring mental processes and focusing solely on observable behavior. However, these approaches provide an optimistic perspective for individuals seeking to change their behaviors. Rather than concentrating on intrinsic personality traits, behavioral approaches suggest that even longstanding habits can be modified by changing the reward contingencies that maintain them.
A real-world application of operant conditioning principles is applied...
A real-world application of operant conditioning principles is applied...
01:28Behaviorism
The field of behaviorism was pioneered by figures such as Ivan Pavlov, John B. Watson, and B.F. Skinner fundamentally shifted the focus of psychology to the observable and controllable aspects of human and animal behavior. This shift marked a critical evolution in the discipline, emphasizing scientific rigor and experimental methodology.
The core premise of behaviorism is its focus on observable behavior rather than internal thoughts or feelings. This approach argues that true scientific...
The core premise of behaviorism is its focus on observable behavior rather than internal thoughts or feelings. This approach argues that true scientific...
02:30Naturalistic Observations
If you want to understand how behavior occurs, one of the best ways to gain information is to simply observe the behavior in its natural context. However, people might change their behavior in unexpected ways if they know they are being observed. How do researchers obtain accurate information when people tend to hide their natural behavior? As an example, imagine that your professor asks everyone in your class to raise their hand if they always wash their hands after using the restroom. Chances...
01:30Impact of Individuals on Individuals
Human behavior is intricately shaped by social influences that arise from interactions with others in diverse contexts. These influences not only mold beliefs and attitudes but also drive the regulation of behaviors through both direct communication and observational learning. The study of these processes falls within the domain of social psychology, which seeks to understand how individuals are affected by and affect those around them.Mechanisms of Social InfluenceDirect social influence...
01:28Causes of Social Behavior III: Biological and Environmental Influences
Social behavior is a complex phenomenon that arises from the interaction between biological predispositions and environmental influences. This intricate interplay shapes how individuals think, feel, and act in various social contexts. Understanding these mechanisms requires insights from psychology, neuroscience, genetics, and evolutionary theory.Environmental Influences on Social BehaviorEnvironmental factors, including temperature, odors, and visual stimuli, play a crucial role in shaping...