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fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging)
Detects changes in the blood oxygenation and flow as a result of neural activity in different parts of the brain.
Produces 3D images (activation maps)
EEG (electroencephalogram)
Electrical activity in the brain measured through electrodes using a skull cap.
May indicate neurological abnormalities
ERP (event-related potential)
Types of brainwaves, triggered by particular events (sensory, cognitive, or motor event)
Post-mortem examinations
Analyses brain after death to determine whether certain behaviours during the patient's life can be linked to abnormalities in the brain.
Temporal resolution
precision of a measurement with respect to time
Spatial resolution
How close in physical proximity you can get to the target brain area.
Strengths of fMRI
easy to use
high spatial resolution
doesn't rely on radiation, in comparison to PET
Limitation of fMRI
high cost
low temporal resolution (5 second delay)
Strength of EEG
high temporal resolution
low cost, enabling larger sample sizes which can increase the validity of data.
Limitation of EEG
low spatial resolution
Strength of ERP
establishing cause and effect (stimulus/performing task)
lower cost than scanning methods, therefore more available to researchers
high temporal resolution
useful for testing reliability of self-report answers
finds an average
Limitation of ERP
low spatial resolution
level of expertise is required as the output from the equipment needs interpretation.
Strength of Post-mortem examinations
enables deeper regions of the brain to be investigated
no discomfort experienced by the individual (they're dead).
Limitations of Post-mortem examinations
cannot establish cause and effect as the brain can be affected by changes which occur during/after death.
