The Brain

Question 1

Define localisation of function theory of brain functioning

Answer 1

States that specific functions of the brain (physical and psychological) have specific locations in the brain

Question 2

Which theory was accepted before the localisation of function theory ?

Answer 2

Holistic theory - pre 19th century all parts of the brain were thought to be involved in thought and action

Question 3

Describe basic brain structure

Answer 3

Split into two hemispheres, activity on L side controlled by R hemisphere + vice versa
Outer layer = cerebral cortex
Cortex appears grey = grey matter

Question 4

Describe the Phineas Gage case study

Answer 4

• Experienced damage in left frontal lobe after an iron rod was blasted through his head
• Afterwards personality changes were observed
• Helped in understanding of role of frontal lobe

Question 5

Name the four lobes in the brain

Answer 5

Frontal lobe, Temporal lobe, Parietal lobe, Occipital lobe

Question 6

Name and describe function of the areas within the frontal lobe

Answer 6

~ Motor cortex —> controls voluntary movement in opposite side of the body
~ Broca’s area —> responsible for speech production, only on L hemisphere

Question 7

Name and describe function of the areas within the parietal lobe

Answer 7

~ Somatosensory lobe —> Sensory info from skin represented, separated from motor cortex by ‘valley’ called central sulcus

Question 8

Name and describe function of the areas within the occipital lobe

Answer 8

Visual cortex —> visual area; eyes send info from R visual field to L visual cortex and vice versa

Question 9

Name and describe function of the areas within the temporal lobe

Answer 9

Auditory area —> houses auditory area which analyses speech-based info
Wernicke’s area —> responsible for speech comprehension (only found on L hemisphere)