Ways Of Studying The Brain

Question 1

Define temporal and spatial resolution.

Answer 1

Temporal: when activity is picked up
Spatial: where it’s picked up

Question 2

What is an FMRI and how does it work?

Answer 2

Functional magnetic resonance imaging. When brain parts are active more o2 is needed and oxygenated blood has a difference magnetic quality than deoxygenated so it’s picked up. Level of brain activity in certain areas are shown in response to mental processes.

Question 3

Give strengths and weaknesses of FMRI

Answer 3

Strengths: non- invasive, objective, precise ad reliable measures, detailed knowledge of mental processes
Weaknesses: poor temporal resolution (1-5 second lag) poor spatial resolution (can’t show directly neural activity) no casual relationship, expensive

Question 4

What is an EEG?

Answer 4

Electroencephalogram. Electrodes on scalp and neural activity is picked up just under scalp. In the form of different wave patterns that indicate overall levels and type of brain activity. Alpha waves (awake and relaxed) beta waves (awake and aroused/R.E.M.) theta and delta waves (sleep). Can identify epilepsy or sleep disorders.

Question 5

Give strengths and weaknesses of EEPS.

Answer 5

Strengths. Temporal resolution (accurate to 1 millisecond), diagnoses epilepsy and sleep disorders, non invasive
Weaknesses: poor spatial resolution as only gives a generalised image, doesn’t differentiate between areas as close together = same electrode, difficult to detect cause, can’t access deeper layers

Question 6

What is an ERP?

Answer 6

Event related potential. Same method as EEG but in response to certain stimuli or events. Researchers able to isolate specific response from other general output. They can identify brainwaves from certain experiences. For example, a response to images of naked people.

Question 7

Give strengths and weaknesses of ERP.

Answer 7

Strengths: temporal resolution, identifying cognitive processes, valuable when self report methods are an issue
Weaknesses: poor spatial resolution - isn’t easy to pick out responses to stimuli or events from other output, can’t pick up deeper activity

Question 8

What is a post mortem?

Answer 8

Investigated structure of brain after death in an individual who showed abnormal behaviour in life such as Tan. Aim to find out if abnormalities in brain contributed to behaviour.

Question 9

Give strengths and weaknesses of post mortem.

Answer 9

Strengths: spatial resolution, can see deeper areas, increased understanding of things like schizophrenia.
Weaknesses: poor temporal resolution ethical issues,Can argue its invasive.