Hemispheric Lateralisation Flashcards
What did Sperry and Gazzaniga examine?
The extent to which the two hemispheres are specialized for certain functions. (Split brain research)
What could the Right Hemisphere (RH) not do in the visual field test?
Describe what was seen in the Left Visual Field (LVF).
What was the performance difference between the Left Hemisphere (LH) and RH in drawing tasks?
LH attempted to draw a picture but not as clearly as the RH, which drew clearer pictures with the left hand.
What are the conclusions regarding hemispheric dominance?
LH is dominant in terms of speech and language; RH is dominant in visual motor tasks.
What is a strength of split-brain research?
It is useful in understanding the extent to which the hemispheres are specialized.
What is a weakness of split-brain research?
It is problematic to assume that evidence is not flawed.
What is neuroplasticity?
The brain’s ability to change and adapt as a result of learning and experience.
What is neural pruning?
The process of removing unused neurons to allow for better connections.
What is hemispheric lateralization?
Behaviors that are specific to each hemisphere of the brain.
What did MRI scanning reveal about the Corpus Callosum?
It contains connections that allow the LH and RH to communicate.
How does the brain compensate for damage from a stroke?
The brain can adapt and recover functions from damaged areas.
What did Takatsura et al. find regarding stroke recovery?
Increased brain stimulation in the undamaged hemisphere can improve recovery from stroke.
What is the role of dormant synapses in the brain?
They are unconnected parts of the brain that can connect and increase input to improve function.
