Localisation of function in the brain Flashcards
Localisation of function
Idea where different areas of the brain carry out particular functions/processes.
Lateralisation
Some functions are better controlled to one hemisphere than the other.
Motor area
Located in the frontal lobe, which regulates movement.
Somatosensory area
Located in the parietal lobe, which processes sensory information (e.g. touch).
Visual area
Located in the occipital lobe, which receives and processes visual information.
Auditory area
Located in the temporal lobe, which is responsible for analysis of speech-based information.
Broca’s area
Located in frontal lobe, in the left hemisphere.
Responsible for speech production.
Wernicke’s area
Located in the temporal lobe, in the left hemisphere.
Responsible for language comprehension
Aphasia (Broca’s area/Wernicke’s area)
Damage to the particular area
Patient Tan study
Patient studied by Paul Broca, who had severe damage to his Broca’s area, and could only say the word “tan.” A post-mortem examination found Tan had a lesion in his frontal lobe, resulting in issues with speech production.
Now known as Broca’s aphasia.
Phineas Gage case study (1848)
Gage was a railroad worker who survived a severe brain injury to his frontal lobe, which dramatically changed his personality and behaviour.
