The Intersecting Frontiers of Extended Reality and Neuropsychology

In this chapter, the authors consider the possibility that XR technologies may allow for the self to become extended in ways that minds may not. As high-dimensional extended reality (XR) platforms evolve into algorithmic devices that seamlessly interface with users, methodological, conceptual, and ethical issues come to the fore. Methodologically, XR platforms offer new ways for neuropsychologists to present dynamic, high-dimensional stimuli that enable assessment and training in ecologically realistic ways. XR simulation techniques promise to challenge and improve received understandings obtained through older, low-dimensional methods. Conceptually, XR platforms also seem to promise extended forms of cognition and embodiment. How do we distinguish between extended cognition and extended self, and what are the ethical implications? Removing or damaging technology that is part of an extended self might be tantamount to a personal attack, while algorithmic devices that extend cognition in other ways may threaten privacy. This chapter discusses these and other issues at the intersection of XR technology and neuropsychology.