Simulation of cognitive disturbances by a dynamic threshold semantic neural network

A neural network model with dynamic thresholds, asymmetric connections, and clustered memories simulates: spread activation that is hypothesized for s emantic networks in the brain. By altering the parameters of the dynamic th reshold a large range of disturbances can be generated in the model. These disturbances show metaphorical resemblance to certain general clinical desc riptions of mental disturbances found in psychiatric patients engaged in va rious cognitive tasks. Even though the model is highly theoretical and meta phoric, it may help to gain certain insights into the relation between alte rations of certain neural parameters, for example, thresholds and connectiv ity, and clinical symptoms in patients.