ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses current research in social neuroscience, particularly the research in the neuroanatomical and neurochemical underpinnings for theory of mind (ToM) and related social communicative behaviors. The history and nature of social neuroscience are described as well as how social neuroscience methods have been used to identify the multidimensional nature of ToM, which is comprised of cognitive ToM, affective ToM, cognitive empathy, interpersonal ToM, and intrapersonal ToM. Descriptions of tasks to assess these types of ToM in research and clinical settings are provided. The components of executive functions (EFs) and autobiographical memory (AM) are described, and the relationships among ToM, EF, and AM are explained. Genetic and environmental influences on the neurochemistry affecting ToM and social interactions are explicated. Finally, research on potential effects of excessive screen time exposure on social interactions is presented.
