What is the crucial distinction consumers must assess regarding app evidence?
Answer
Remediating pathology vs. optimizing normal function
A critical factor for consumers selecting a cognitive training tool is understanding the evidential basis of the application. This requires assessing whether the supporting scientific trials focused on remediating a specific pathology, such as addressing significant deficits caused by schizophrenia or severe age-related decline, or whether the evidence supports optimization of normal function for the general, healthy population. The mechanisms tested and the outcomes achieved in these two distinct research settings—clinical intervention versus general enhancement—can differ significantly, which directly impacts the expected real-world transferability of skills.

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