Methods for Studying the Brain

These flashcards cover the different methods used to study the brain, including the mechanisms, advantages, and disadvantages of each technique.

Accidents Method

Examines an individual’s behavior after brain damage due to accidents, allowing for connections between brain structure and function.

Lesions Method

Looks at behavior after brain damage from disease or psychosurgery, also providing insights into brain structure-function relationships.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

Records brain's electrical activity through electrodes on the scalp; offers high temporal resolution but low spatial resolution.

Computerized Axial Tomography (CAT) scan

Uses X-ray cameras to create 3D images of brain structure with high resolution; involves radiation exposure.

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan

Tracks brain's use of radioactive glucose, revealing functional information about brain activity during tasks.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Utilizes magnetic fields to produce images of brain structure without radiation; does not provide functional details.

Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI)

Detects blood flow changes in the brain as a proxy for oxygen consumption, indicating brain function.

Advantages of EEG

Non-invasive and painless procedure with high temporal resolution.

Disadvantages of EEG

Low spatial resolution and provides no information about specific brain structures.

Advantages of CAT scan

Offers high-resolution images of brain structure.

Disadvantages of CAT scan

Involves potential damage from high radiation levels and lacks functional information.

Advantages of PET scan

Provides functional information about brain activity during tasks.

Disadvantages of PET scan

Involves radiation injection, is a lengthy process, and requires expensive equipment.

Advantages of MRI

Non-invasive and painless procedure giving insights into brain structure without radiation.

Disadvantages of MRI

May be uncomfortable or claustrophobic and provides no functional information.

Advantages of fMRI

Offers high spatial resolution and is non-invasive with quick imaging.

Disadvantages of fMRI

May induce discomfort and does not give detailed structural information.