mirror neurons evaluation

Question 1

there is evidence to support an important role for mirror neurons in human social cognition

Answer 1

there is evidence to support an important role for mirror neurons in human social cognition

Haker et al (2012) demonstrated that Brodman’s area 9 in the right frontal lobe, an area of the brain believed to be rich in mirror neurons, is involved in contagious yawning

This is widely seen as an example of human empathy and thus ability to perceive mental states in others showing that mirror neurons play an important role in empathy

Question 2

there is evidence to support an important role for mirror neurons in human social cognition

Answer 2

there is evidence to support an important role for mirror neurons in human social cognition

Mouras et al asked male participants to watch either a fishing documentary or heterosexual pornography.
Brian activity was measured using an fMRI and arousal by a pressure-sensitive penis ring

Pars opercularis activity was seen immediately before sexual arousal

Pars opercularis is a region of the brain believed to be rich in mirror neurons so the findings are consistent with the idea that mirror neurons play a role in perspective-taking

Question 3

there is evidence for atypical mirror neurons in ASD

Answer 3

there is evidence for atypical mirror neurons in ASD

Hadjikani reviewed the evidence for the link between AD and deficiency in mirror neuron function and found some support.

Structural brain scans have shown a smaller average thickness for the pars opercilaris ( an area believed to be rich in mirror neurons) in participants with ASD

Studies using functional scans have shown lower activity in brain areas associated with mirror neurons in participants with ASD

HOWEVER, not all findings have been replicated consistently so the evidence linking ASD to mirror neurons is mixed
This is a problem for the broken mirror theory of ASD as they is a lack of reliable direct evidence to support the theory

Question 4

there are questions over the precise role of mirror neurons

Answer 4

there are questions about the precise role of mirror neurons

Hickock suggest mirror neuron activity may have more to do with using others’ behaviour to plan out own, rather than understanding the cognition behind it

Researchers should provide better evidence to support their claims of the role mirror neurons in social cognition