Damasio et al (1994)

Question 1

When did this study take place?

Answer 1

1994

Question 2

What were the aims of this study?

Answer 2

To see if there was damage to other parts of Phineas Gage’s brain

Question 3

What were the procedures of this study?

Answer 3

Built virtual replica of Gage’s skull using his measurements in order to:

• map out possible entry and exit points of the iron rod
• map out possible damaged areas

Question 4

What were the results of the study?

Answer 4

1. Ventromedial area of the frontal lobes of both hemispheres received the most damage
2. Damage to underlying white matter in left hemisphere meant that this part was unable to pass neural messages

Question 5

What were the conclusions of this study?

Answer 5

Ventromedial area of the frontal lobe is important for making sensible decisions and controlling impulses around others

Question 6

What were the strengths of this study?

Answer 6

1. Computer model ensured the evidence was seen and not inferred
2. Use of modern technology gave the results more scientific status
3. Can make predictions of changes of behaviour to expect with similar frontal lobe damage

Question 7

What are the weaknesses of this study?

Answer 7

1. May not be reliable - info used to make the model was gathered from reports from 150+ years ago
2. Can’t generalise conclusions to others b/c his damage was unique

Question 8

Define:

1) Ventromedial

2) White matter

Answer 8

1. Middle of the underside

2. Where neurons pass messages along axon fibres