The McCloskey et al. (1985) model of arithmetical processing is helpful for understanding which condition?

• A. The cognitive neuropsychology of the developmental dyscalculias
• B. Face recognition in autism
• C. Working memory capacity
• D. Aphasia

Answer: (A)

The model helps explain arithmetic through distinct cognitive components, such as retrieving arithmetic facts from memory, performing procedural calculations, and representing numbers and their relationships. This separation lets us see why people with math difficulties may show different patterns—some struggle to recall multiplication facts, others have trouble with the steps of calculation, and some have conceptual number difficulties. In developmental dyscalculia, these patterns are common: children have persistent arithmetic problems despite normal overall intelligence and schooling, and the neuropsychological profiles observed fit disruptions in one or more of these components. That makes the model a useful framework for understanding developmental dyscalculias. It isn’t primarily about face recognition, general working memory capacity, or language impairments like aphasia.