What Evidence Do We Have for the Function of the Prefrontal

question 55

Essay

What evidence do we have for the function of the prefrontal cortex? Evaluate at least three studies discussed in this chapter and cite experimental evidence in your response.

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Definitions:

Brain-Wave Activity

The patterns of neuronal electrical oscillations in the brain, detectable with techniques such as EEG, and associated with different states of consciousness.

Epilepsy

A neurological disorder marked by sudden recurrent episodes of sensory disturbance, loss of consciousness, or convulsions, associated with abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

Reticular Formation

A system in the midbrain comprising a diffuse collection of neurons involved in stereotyped patterns of behavior such as walking, sleeping, and turning to attend to a sudden noise.

Midbrain

Located between the hindbrain and forebrain, an area in which many nerve-fiber systems ascend and descend to connect the higher and lower portions of the brain; in particular, the midbrain relays information between the brain and the eyes and ears.