How do the biological studies (4) link to the area?

Question 1

Sperry- Split brain study- Regions of the brain

Answer 1

Biological area as it it showing through split-brain patients the way in which different abilities are localised within the 2 hemispheres of brain and distinct areas control specific behaviours.
Small sample compared to Casey’s study.

Question 2

Casey- Neural correlates of delay of gratification- Regions of the brain

Answer 2

Biological as involves trying to see whether there is neural basis to self-regulation/ control. This done through fMRI scans of people who previously (40 years ago) took part in Mischel’s delay of gratification test (marshmallow test).

Question 3

Blakemore & Cooper- Impact of early visual experience- Brain plasticity

Answer 3

Research into brain plasticity, classical study- evidence put forward of impact the visual environment has on cats’ brains- specifically their visual neurons.
Biological because of focus on neurons, also opens up debate about whether biology affects behaviour or whether behaviour might even affect biology.

Question 4

Maguire- Taxi drivers- Brain plasticity

Answer 4

Modern study- counterpart to B&C study- illustrates brain plasticity also.
This time illustrates amongst adult humans (specifically Ldn taxi drivers) in different part of the brain (hippocampi).
Uses different techniques (MRI scans) to investigate.
Study also explains brain plasticity- organisation of brain altered by experiences.