Localization of Function
Localization of Function
The concept that specific brain regions are responsible for distinct psychological functions.
Key Concepts
- Strict Localization: The idea that a specific part of the brain is solely responsible for a given function.
- Relative Localization: Suggests that while certain areas are specialized, other areas may also contribute to the same function.
- Distributed Processing: The concept that functions are spread across multiple brain regions.
Historical Studies
Case studyBroca's Area (Speech Production)
Aim: To investigate the role of the left frontal lobe in speech production.
Method: Case study of a patient named "Tan", who could only say the word "tan" but understood language.
Results: Broca discovered a lesion in the left inferior frontal gyrus , now known as Broca's area.
Conclusion: This area is critical for speech production.
Case studyWernicke's Area (Language Comprehension)
Aim: To identify brain regions responsible for language comprehension.
Method: Case studies of patients with language deficits.
Results: Lesions in the left posterior superior temporal gyrus led to impaired comprehension but fluent speech.
Conclusion: This area, now called Wernicke's area , is essential for understanding language.
