Asked by Joseline Acevedo on May 10, 2024

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How did researchers first learn about the functions of the frontal lobes? What are those functions? Describe the consequences of severe frontal lobe damage. What does this tell us about personality?

Frontal Lobes

The part of the brain located at the front of each cerebral hemisphere, responsible for higher cognitive functions, decision-making, and control of voluntary muscles.

Severe Damage

Extensive harm or injury that significantly impairs function or structure.

Personality

Refers to the stable individual differences in emotional, interpersonal, experiential, attitudinal, and motivational styles that define one's personal distinctiveness.

  • Elucidate the reciprocal causality between biological functions and social actions.
  • Evaluate the repeatability of study outcomes in biopsychology, especially those associated with physiological characteristics and actions.
  • Acquire knowledge of the cause-and-result dynamics between physiology and actions, including the modifications in hormonal levels and brain processes due to exercise, drug intake, and therapy.
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Riddhi SharmaMay 10, 2024
Final Answer :
Researchers first learned about the functions of the frontal lobes through studying patients who had suffered damage to this area of the brain. One of the most famous cases was that of Phineas Gage, a railroad worker who experienced severe frontal lobe damage in an accident in 1848. This injury drastically changed his personality and behavior, leading researchers to investigate the role of the frontal lobes in regulating emotions, decision-making, and social behavior.

The functions of the frontal lobes include executive functions such as planning, decision-making, and problem-solving, as well as emotional regulation and impulse control. They also play a role in social behavior and personality expression.

Severe frontal lobe damage can have significant consequences on a person's behavior and personality. Patients may exhibit impulsive and risky behavior, have difficulty controlling their emotions, struggle with decision-making and planning, and may also experience changes in their social behavior and personality. This can lead to difficulties in relationships, work, and everyday functioning.

This tells us that the frontal lobes play a crucial role in shaping our personality and behavior. Damage to this area of the brain can lead to significant changes in how we interact with the world and regulate our emotions, highlighting the importance of the frontal lobes in shaping who we are as individuals.