brain scans (ERQ)

Why are techniques to study the brain in relation to behaviour important

These techniques and technologies have revolutionized our understanding of the brain, offering invaluable insights that drive both clinical and research advancements in psychology and neuroscience

Brain scanning technology

refers to a variety of imaging techniques that allow researchers and medical professionals to visualize the structure and function of the brain non-invasively. These technologies can provide detailed images of the brain's anatomy, detect abnormalities, and monitor brain activity in real-time.

Example oF brain scaning technology

• Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI)

• Positron Emission Tomography (PET)

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

How does brain scnaing technology help in psychology?

Localization: Identifying which areas of the brain are responsible for specific cognitive functions and behaviours.

Detection: Identifying structural abnormalities or atypical brain activity associated with mental health disorders.

Effectiveness: Evaluating how treatments, such as medication or therapy, impact brain function and structure over time.

how can we study the brain?

There are numerous ways to study the brain such as brain-scanning technology

What does MRI stand for?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

How does an MRI work

uses a large magnet and radio waves to scan the brain, producing images of brain structures

strength of MRI

It enables researchers to pinpoint specific brain structures which may be damaged or have increased grey matter to identify the link between brain and behaviour

limitations of MRI

MRI scanners are prone to disturbance caused by noise, temperature and human error in calibration, which means that they are not always reliable

First study to mention that talks about MRI

Maguire (2000)

main study of MRI

Corkin et al. (1997)

background of the main study

HM allowed surgeons to remove a thumb-sized section of tissue from each side of his brain. It was an experimental procedure that he and his surgeons hoped would quell the seizures wracking his brain. The seizures abated, but afterwards HM was left with permanent amnesia.

aim of the main study

To determine the extent of HM's amnesia and also to understand what this meant for his daily life.

method of the main study

Case study, using interviews, cognitive testing, observation and eventually brain imaging technology to piece together the picture. It was a breakthrough in understanding the damage to HM’s brain when researchers could use the MRI scanner in the 1990s (Corkin, 1997). This showed that the damage was pervasive and included the hippocampus, the amygdala, and other areas close to the hippocampus. Using the scanner, Corkin (1997) was able to test which areas of the brain are related to which areas of memory and skill learning - something they could only speculate about beforehand.

results

There was a link between hippocampal damage and HM's loss of memory. The transfer of memory from the short-term store to the long-term store seems to involve the hippocampus.

conclusions

This case study supports the theory of localisation of brain function.

limitation

This was a case study of one participant, so the results are not easily generalisable

strengths

Case study with an extreme condition allowed for great insight into the localisation of certain elements of memory creation. so there were many tests conducted triangulated each other.

ethical consideration: good

HM's anonymity was preserved and his identity was protected until his death.

ethical consideration: bad

HM could not remember giving his consent to participate, due to his condition. However, his caretakers did provide consent. It just raises issues with consent, and how to handle it for individuals who won't remember it, or who are incapable of providing it.