Techniques used in Social Neuroscience

Question 1

Functional Localization

Answer 1

came from phrenology, supported by the case study method. It refers to the idea that specific cognitive functions or behaviors are primarily associated with particular regions or areas of the brain. In other words, certain brain functions—like memory, language, vision, or motor control—are localized to specific parts of the brain.

Question 2

Equipotentiality

Answer 2

Lashley’s work in rats with cortical tissues removed
All areas of the brain are equally able to perform a task
The amount of tissue removed was what mattered, not where it was taken from.
certain regions of the brain have the capacity to take over the functions of damaged or lesioned areas. It’s the idea that the brain has the potential to “compensate” or reorganize itself after injury or damage, especially early in life. If one area of the brain is damaged, other parts of the brain might take over the functions that were originally handled by the damaged area.

Question 3

EEG

Answer 3

Electroencephalography
Measures electrical signals produced by the brain via electrodes on the scalp

Question 4

ERP

Answer 4

Event Related potential
Averages electrical signals across multiple trials to produce an average waveform in response to an event

Question 5

PET

Answer 5

Positron emission tomography.
Tracks the brain metabolic activity via a radioactive substance injected into the bloodstream

Question 6

fMRI

Answer 6

Functional magnetic resonance imaging.
Employs a magnetic field to detect changes in the blood oxygen level- dependant (BOLD) response

Question 7

TMS

Answer 7

An electrical current flows through a wire placed on the scalp over an area to be stimulated