, EDS4802 ASSIGNMENT 4
DUE DATE: 30 SEPTEMBER 2026
Introduction
Neuropsychology studies the relationship between the brain and human behaviour.
Memory, emotions, motivation and social behaviour are all affected by the way different
areas of the brain work together. When a person develops serious memory problems,
brain imaging can help professionals understand what may be happening in the brain.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) are two
important techniques that can provide different types of information. MRI mainly shows
the structure of the brain, while PET can show brain activity and certain biological
processes (Raji et al., 2024).
This discussion examines the differences between MRI and PET, the physiological
processes involved in memory, alternative explanations for memory problems,
important brain structures and reward systems, and the role of a neuropsychologist in
assessment and treatment.
Question 1: MRI Versus PET and Hypothesised Findings
MRI and PET are both useful brain-imaging techniques, but they provide different
information. MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of
the physical structure of the brain. It can show changes such as brain shrinkage, damage
to brain tissue, strokes, tumours and other structural abnormalities. MRI is therefore
useful when investigating possible causes of cognitive decline (Alzheimer’s Association,
2024).
PET works differently because it measures biological activity in the brain. In an FDG-PET
scan, a small amount of a radioactive glucose-like substance is given to the patient.
DUE DATE: 30 SEPTEMBER 2026
Introduction
Neuropsychology studies the relationship between the brain and human behaviour.
Memory, emotions, motivation and social behaviour are all affected by the way different
areas of the brain work together. When a person develops serious memory problems,
brain imaging can help professionals understand what may be happening in the brain.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) are two
important techniques that can provide different types of information. MRI mainly shows
the structure of the brain, while PET can show brain activity and certain biological
processes (Raji et al., 2024).
This discussion examines the differences between MRI and PET, the physiological
processes involved in memory, alternative explanations for memory problems,
important brain structures and reward systems, and the role of a neuropsychologist in
assessment and treatment.
Question 1: MRI Versus PET and Hypothesised Findings
MRI and PET are both useful brain-imaging techniques, but they provide different
information. MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of
the physical structure of the brain. It can show changes such as brain shrinkage, damage
to brain tissue, strokes, tumours and other structural abnormalities. MRI is therefore
useful when investigating possible causes of cognitive decline (Alzheimer’s Association,
2024).
PET works differently because it measures biological activity in the brain. In an FDG-PET
scan, a small amount of a radioactive glucose-like substance is given to the patient.
