Methods of studying the brain Flashcards
What is a post mortem
A way of investigating the brain after death. Usually when an interesting behaviour was shown in their lifetime
Spacial resolution of post mortem
As good as the pathologist (high)
temporal resolution of a post mortem
NA
Positives of post mortem
Vital in establishing key processes of the brain from an early stage
Negatives of post mortem
causation is an issue as it is a case study. Low temporal resolution.
What is an EEG
Measures electrical activity within the brain via electrodes which are fixed to the scalp. Measures the neurons. Records the brainwave patterns providing an overall brain activity measure.
Spacial research of EEG
Very poor can only measure whole areas at once
Temporal resolution of EEG
1-10 milliseconds (very fast)
Positives of an EEG
Has been useful in studying sleep and epilepsy. Has high temporal resolution.
Weaknesses of an EEG
Relies on generalised information so can’t pinpoint locations of activity. Only shows cortical activity.
What is an ERP
Types of brainwaves which are triggered by particular events. All brain activity is filtered out apart from those which relate to the specific task. How the brain responds to an event.
Spacial research of an ERP
Very poor
Temporal resolution of ERP
very high 1-10 milliseconds
Positives of an ERP
More specific than and ERP. Used to measure cognitive functions and deficits.
Negatives of an ERP
needs all other sound filtered out Can’t tell any structural changes.
