10. Split-brain Research Into Hemispheric Lateralisation AO3 Flashcards Preview

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Flashcards in 10. Split-brain Research Into Hemispheric Lateralisation AO3 Deck (10)
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1
Q

Name two strengths of split brain research

A
  1. Sperry’s methodology

2. His work started a debate about the nature of the brain

2
Q

Why is Sperry’s methodology a strength

A

Carefully standardised procedure of presenting visual information to one hemispheric field at a time - quite ingenious

3
Q

Outline Sperry’s methodology

A

Participants stared at a fixed point with one eye - image flashed up for 0.1s - patient had no time to move eyes over image and spread over both visual fields or sides of brain

4
Q

What was so good about Sperry’s methodology

A

Allowed him to vary the aspects of procedure- ensured only one hemisphere received information at a time - very useful - very well controlled

5
Q

Explain how Sperry’s work started a debate about the nature of the brain

A

Triggered a theoretical and philosophical debate - about nature of consciousness - and degree of communication between hemispheres in everyday functioning.

6
Q

Name a weakness of split brain research

A

Issues with generalisations in relation to Sperry’s work

7
Q

Why might there be issues with generalisations in relation to Sperry’s work

A

Many researchers said findings can’t be widely accepted - split brain patients are unusual samples of people

8
Q

What can be concluded about Sperry’s research about generalisations

A

Limits extent that findings can be generalised to normal brains - reduces validity of conclusions

9
Q

Outline Sperry’s participants

A

11 patients with a history of seizures

10
Q

What is an issue with Sperry’s participants

A

May have caused unique changes in the brain - influencing findings