Presenter: Grace Mucci, Ph.D., M.S., ABPdN, ABPP
1 CE Available
Article Link
Abstract:
This case study explores the neuropsychological and neuroimaging profile of Dr. Temple Grandin, a distinguished scientist and educator widely recognized as one of the most influential individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As part of a personal initiative to deepen understanding of her own neurobiology, Dr. Grandin underwent comprehensive neuropsychological testing alongside multimodal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), including structural MRI, diffusion tensor imaging, and functional MRI. Neuropsychological assessment revealed superior visuospatial and visual memory abilities contrasted with average performance on language-based tasks. fMRI during an auditory-language protocol demonstrated typical left-lateralized activation of language regions. However, when exposed to lyric-based music, activation shifted predominantly to visual networks rather than auditory regions, suggesting unique neural processing strategies. Structural analyses indicated asymmetry in the lateral ventricles, with the left ventricle larger than the right, though overall ventricular size was age-normative. These findings highlight distinct neural mechanisms underlying Dr. Grandin’s exceptional visuospatial skills and visual thinking, offering insights into cognitive diversity in ASD. The aim of this journal club discussion is to examine the clinical implications of these findings, including how individualized neurobiological profiles can inform assessment, intervention, and support strategies for individuals with autism.
Level of Activity: Intermediate
Objectives:
1) Interpret the neuropsychological findings from Dr. Grandin’s assessment, particularly the contrast between superior visuospatial abilities and average language-based performance and evaluate how these patterns inform clinical approaches to cognitive strengths and challenges in autism spectrum disorder.
2) Evaluate the clinical implications of individualized neurobiological profiles for assessment, intervention planning, and support strategies for individuals with ASD.
3) Compare structural neuroimaging findings (e.g., ventricular asymmetry) with normative data and discuss their potential significance for understanding neurodevelopmental variability.
Speaker Bio:
Dr. Mucci has over 30 years’ experience in the assessment and treatment of children with chronic illnesses, developmental disabilities, and mental health conditions. She is currently a Professor at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Anaheim Campus and is Visiting Scientist at CHOC Children’s Hospital. She is also on medical staff at CHOC where she worked for over 20 years as a pediatric neuropsychologist. Dr. Mucci is the Principal Investigator of FIT Brain, a Neurocognitive Remediation Program for Childhood Cancer Survivors, and has been involved in research involving the neurocognitive effects of epilepsy, as well as other chronic conditions that affect the central nervous system. Dr. Mucci also maintains a private practice with offices in Long Beach and Newport Beach.
Dr. Mucci received her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology, Bay Area, and completed a post-doctoral Master of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology. She completed an APA-Accredited internship at CHOC Children’s Hospital, with post-doctoral training in neuropsychology at CHOC and the Neurobehavioral Clinic and Counseling Center in Mission Viejo, California. Dr. Mucci is Board Certified in Pediatric Neuropsychology and Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Neuropsychology, where she is currently serving as Executive Director.
The American Academy of Pediatric Neuropsychology (AAPdN) is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. AAPdN maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
AAPdN is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board of Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists #PSY-0059. AAPdN maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
