Lesson 7 - Lateralisation of function

Question 1

What does the term Brain lateralisation refer to ?

Answer 1

It refers to the idea that two halves if the human brain are not exactly alike. Each side has different functions that are principally governed by that side.

Question 2

How do the hemispheres communicate ?

Answer 2

They communicate through the corpus callosum. This is what allows us to talk about an image for example. As they are done by different parts of the brain.

Question 3

How can we test brain lateralisation ?

Answer 3

Cutting the corpus callosum - thus eliminating the communication mechanism between the hemispheres

Question 4

What is a strength of lateralisation ?

Answer 4

Patients who have damage to left hemisphere experience global aphasia (loss of production and comprehension of speech). Implies language is lateralised to the left hemisphere.

Question 5

What is a weakness of lateralisation ?

Answer 5

Psychologist found that language became more lateralised to left hemisphere up to age of 25 but decreased after that. Suggests caution should be taken as can change

Question 6

What is a weakness of lateralisation ?

Answer 6

Doesn’t explain brain plasticity. Studies have shown that other hemisphere can take over duties of an injured area. Suggests brain plastics can overcome limitations associated with lateralisation.