Prefrontal Cortex - Role in Emotions Flashcards
Example of the prefrontal cortex showing that a region of the brain doesn’t just relate to one behaviour or emotion?
The fact that the prefrontal cortex is also involved in depression.
Which cortices does depression link to?
The orbitofrontal, ventromedial & lateral prefrontal cortices.
The lower the activity in the prefrontal cortex…
… the more likely there will be depression.
Prefrontal cortex relates to?
Emotions
Perhaps the prefrontal cortex is more about regulating emotions. What does this suggest about aggression?
That it comes from a lack of regulation of emotions, rather than it, in itself, coming from the prefrontal cortex.
What can aggression be defined as?
The lack of regulation or control over behaviour.
Why does it make sense to say that the prefrontal cortex has a role in emotions?
Because it has a lot of connections with parts of the brain relating to dopamine, serotonin & norepinephrine, which relate to emotions.
What is the orbitofrontal cortex linked to?
It is linked to our accepting delayed gratification & deferring rewards.
What is the ventromdeial cortex linked to?
The experience of emotions.
What is the lateral prefrontal cortex involved with?
It is involved in making choices in behaviour by letting us see the options
The roles of the orbitofrontal, ventromedial & lateral prefrontal cortices can be summarised as?
Helping us to regulate our behaviour.
What does the prefrontal cortex in the left hemisphere seem to be involved in?
Positive emotions.
What does the prefrontal cortex in the right hemisphere seem to be involved in?
Negative emotions.
What adds to the complexity of the different parts of the brain?
The fact that they interact with one another.
