Localisation of Function: Case Studies

Question 1

What happened in Tulving et al. (1994)?

Answer 1

• Used PET scans.
• Semantic memories were recalled from the left prefrontal cortex.
• Episodic memories were recalled from the right prefrontal cortex.
• Supports the localisation theory’s prediction that different areas of the brain are responsible for different functions.

Question 2

What happened in Petersen et al. (1988)?

Answer 2

• Wernicke’s area activation is required for listening tasks.
• Broca’s area is required for reading tasks.
• Confirms the idea that Wernicke’s area is involved in speech comprehension.
• Confirms the idea that Broca’s area is involved in speech production.

Question 3

What happened to Phineas Gage?

Answer 3

• A rod tore through his prefrontal cortex.
• The damage involved both the left and right prefrontal cortices.
• Caused a defect in rational decision making and processing of emotions.
• Supports the localisation theory’s prediction that different areas of the brain are responsible for different functions.