RESEARCH METHODS - brain scanninng techniques

Question 1

what are the strengths of FMRI Scans?

Answer 1

• non invasive + much safer than other
• they’re able to map precise detail, pinpointing up to 1mm accurate
• reliable = has a clinical standardised procedure which can be tested
• allows us to use repeated measures to find clear comparision = increased validity

Question 2

what are the weaknesses of FMRI scans?

Answer 2

• uses high power magnets = those with metal surgical implants may not be able to get the tratment = low application
• the scans are long and participants are required to sit still = any movement could create inaccurate data = low validity

Question 3

what are the strengths of PET scans?

Answer 3

• valid - collected and analysed data is measured numerically = objective (red is high, blue is low)
• reliable - follows a strict standardised procedure
• applications - early intervention can be used to develop brain development
• applications - used in court (rain et al)

Question 4

what are the weaknesses of PET scans?

Answer 4

• invase = participants are exposed to radiation and are injected with potentially harmful substances = risks of long term effects
• participants variables (fear and nervousness) could affect brain scanning = low validity
• can’t use repeated measures in a PET scan because of the levels of radiation
• cannot pinpoint what part of the brain is responsible for behaviour

Question 5

what are the strengths of CAT scans?

Answer 5

• x-rays are less risky than exploratory surgery = people have less checkups
• can give very accurate details of brain structure = helps guide clinicians in better decision making regarding treatment/surgery
• helps surgeons to plan procedures before surgery
• very quick to conduct = less distortion and faster results achieves = applicable

Question 6

what are the weaknesses of CAT scans?

Answer 6

• the use of x-rays can pose a threat = patients are exposed to radiation = unethical
• pregnant women are advised to not have CAT scans = damaging to new born babies
• any tiny movement can distort images affecting results = low validity
• alternatives are better

Question 7

what are PET scans?

Answer 7

• a scanning technique to measure brain activity
• involves injected a radioactive FDG tracer into someone’s arm
• tracer emits positrons and high give out gamma rays that can be detected by the scanner
• red = high activity, blue = low activity

Question 8

what are FMRI scans?

Answer 8

• a scanning technique used to measure brain activity
• done by detecting the changes in blood oxygenation and flow that occur in response to neutral activity
• more blood flow = more brain activity