Unit 1 Introducing Pyschology - Localisation of the cortical function - Step 1

made up of 3 parts.

The Central Core (Brain Stem), the Limbic System and the Cerebrum.

the central core (brain stem) controlls primitive behavours such as sleeping and breathing,   also controlls involuntary behavours such as sneezing.   Also contains the Hypothalamus which regulates eating, drinking, sexual behavours.  This system also makes sure the body maintains a constant physiological state.

The Limbic System is in the central core of the brain,  and is closely interconnected with the hypothalamus.  The limbic System contains the Hippocampus which plays a role in memory.

The Cerebrum contains, The frontal lobe,  the parietal lobe, the temperal lobe and the occipital lobe.

Roles of the different lobes.

the frontal lobe controls most brain functions.

the parietal lobe contains, the motor area which is responsible for controlling movements. And contains the somatosensory area which responds to heat, cold, touch, pain.

the occipital lobe is in charge of visual functions such as sight.

the temperal lobe contains the auditory area responsible for analysis of speech based information such as Wernikes and Broca's aphasia.

Methods of studying the cortical functions in the brain

neurosurgery, electrical + chemical stimulation and post mortem studies.

Neurosurgery is invasive,  uses ablations and  lesions to manipulate the brain.  This allows for a great deal…