Discuss the use of brain imaging technologies (for example, CAT, PET, fMRI) in investigating the relationship between biological factors and behaviour. (22)
Brain-imagining techniques: used to investigate the relationship between behavior and brain structures
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
uses magnetic field and computer to create a 3D still picture of the brain by aligning oxygen molecules in the brain
image: detailed, 3D still picture of the brain structure
uses magnetic field and computer to create a 3D still picture of the brain by aligning oxygen molecules in the brain
image: detailed, 3D still picture of the brain structure
Strengths
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Limitations
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Maguire (2000)
Scanned the brain of London cab drivers, discovered that their hippocampus were larger than control group
Scanned the brain of London cab drivers, discovered that their hippocampus were larger than control group
fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging)
uses magnetic field and computer to create a 3D still picture of the brain by aligning oxygen molecules in the brain
image: detailed, 3D dynamic (moving) pictures
uses magnetic field and computer to create a 3D still picture of the brain by aligning oxygen molecules in the brain
image: detailed, 3D dynamic (moving) pictures
Strengths
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Limitations
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PET (positron emission tomography)
Injection of radiated glucose into bloodstream: more active areas of the brain use more glucose. The activity can be measured by measuring the emitted radiation from the brain by the use of computers and scanners
Injection of radiated glucose into bloodstream: more active areas of the brain use more glucose. The activity can be measured by measuring the emitted radiation from the brain by the use of computers and scanners
Strengths
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Limitations
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