Key Concept 3: Neuroanatomy

Question 1

Localisation

Answer 1

The brain is divided into two connected halves: the right and left hemispheres. Localisation is when different parts of the brain perform different functions, according to psychologists.

Question 2

3 major areas of the brain within the cortex (the outer layer)

Answer 2

Motor area - controls voluntary movements of the opposite side of the body. Any damage here can cause a loss of fine movements.

Somatosensory area - Sensory information from the skin, e.g. heat from touch, from the opposite side of the body. Damage here causes feelings of tingling or numbness.

Visual area - Each eye sends visual information to the other side of the brain.

Question 3

Lateralisation

Answer 3

When some functions are only found in one of the two hemispheres. Language functions - left side of the brain (left hemisphere). Damage to this side of the brain could cause difficulties speaking. Damage to the right hand side would not cause this damage.

Question 4

Plasticity of the brain

Answer 4

The idea that the brain can change and adapt throughout life. Two examples are:

Synaptic pruning - As we develop we lose some of the connections per neuron, babies have twice as many adult brains (15,000 connections per neuron). This is to allow new connections to form in the brain.

Functional recovery - When areas of the brain are damaged functions can move to unaffected areas. New connections are formed close to the affected area and the function moves to that part of the brain. This can be helped through rehabilitation therapies.