subcorical support of cognitive-linguistic functions

the structures of the limbic system are the

hippocampus, amygdala, thalamus and hypothalamus

the limbic system is located within

deep brain tissue, resting very close to the brainstem

collectively the primary functions of the limbic system are in the regulation

of emotions, memory, motivation and learning

hippocampus

• translates short term memories into long-term memories

• assists in new learning. translates new learning into long-term memories during sleep

• forms new memories

• spatial navigation and spatial memory

amygdale

• regulates intensely-felt emotions

• emotional control

• motivation

• aggression and fear; large role in fear conditioning

• survival instincts

• memory encoding and consolidation of memory

thalamus

• sleep-wake cycles

• level of consciousness and alertness level, severe damage to this structure can reulst in coma

• sensory information – serves as a relay to the cortex for

interpretation most sensations except for the sense of smell.

• Perception of pain.

hypothalamus

• primarily involved in the regulation of metabolic processes including

  • thirst hunger food and water intake

• body temperature, sleep-wake cycle

• reproductive cycle and hormones

• triggers fight or flight response

• AND it is believed to be important in the regulation of emotional responses (pleasure, rage, aversion- emotional reactions)