Psychology in Modules 5

tissue destruction. A brain lesion is a naturally or experimentally caused destruction of brain tissue.

use electrodes on the scalp to record rapid, momentary changes in brain electrical activity.

provides a visual display of brain activity that detects a radioactive form of glucose while the brain performs a given task. Show abnormalities in brain functioning by measuring the distribution of metabolic activity in the brain.

produce computer-generated images that distinguish among different types of brain tissue.

reveals both structure and function of the brain. Detects blood flow as individuals perform different mental functions.

the oldest part of the brain, beginning where the spinal cord swells and enters the skull. Responsible for autonomic survival functions.

base of the brainstem, controls heartbeat and breathing.

helps coordinate movements by serving as a bridge between cerebellum and cerebrum.

a nerve network in the brainstem that plays an important role in controlling arousal.

brain's sensory switchboard, located on top of the brainstem. It directs messages to the sensory areas in the cortex and transmits replies to the cerebellum and medulla.

the "little brain" attached to the rear of the brainstem. It helps coordinate voluntary movements and balance. Also, tells brain what to expect from our own movements.

associated with emotions such as fear, aggression, and drives for food and sex. It includes the hypothalamus, amygdala, and hippocampus.

two almond shaped neural clusters linked to fear and anger.

plays a vital role in learning and memory.

below the thalamus; directs several maintenance activities like eating, drinking, body temperature, and sexual behavior. Contains the reward center.

the intricate fabric of interconnected neural cells that covers the cerebral hemispheres. The body's ultimate control and information processing center.

at the rear of the frontal lobes; controls voluntary movements by sending messages out to the body. Damage can alter personality.

receives info from skin surface and sense organs.

at the back of the head, include visual areas.

just above the ears, include auditory areas.

not involved in primary motor or sensory functions. Rather, they interpret, integrate, and act on information processed by the sensory areas.

impairment of language, usually caused by left hemisphere damage either to Broca's area (impaired speaking) or to Wernicke's area (impaired understanding).

more verbal hemisphere

hemisphere that excels in visual perception

the brain's ability to modify itself after some types of injury or illness