The CNS and Human Behaviour Flashcards
Function of the CNS
Collect processes and responds information from the environment
Coordinates the working of organs and cells in the body
Spinal cord
Connects to brain via brainstem
Controls reflex actions
Passes messages to and from the brain
Brain
Where decision making takes place
Divided into two hemispheres connected by corpus callosum
Left hemispheres controls right side of body
Cerebral cortex is outer layer
Thalamus
Brain’s relay station
Receives sensory information
Hypothalamus
Controls motivational behaviour
Body’s flight or fight response
Maintains bodily functions (homeostasis)
Regulates activity in endocrine system via pituitary gland
Limbic system
Memory learning and emotion regulation
Cerebellum
Coordination, balance and movement
Corpus callosum
Connects two hemispheres
Integrates activities of both sides
Lateralisation and localisation
Lateralisation = hemispheres of human brain are structurally identical but have different functions
Localisation = certain areas are responsible for specific functions and behaviours
Frontal lobe
Controls cognitive functioning (decision making)
Contains motor cortex
Includes brocas area
Parietal area
Contains sonatosensory cortex
Processes sensory informaiton
On top
Temporal lobe
Auditory cortex
Understanding language
Occipital lobe
Back of brain
Sight
Broca’s area
Speech production
Wernickes area
Understanding speech
