PSY-402 Topic 2 DQ1

PSY-402 Topic 2 DQ1 What does the case of Phineas Gage reveal about localization of functions in the brain? How can modern neuroscientists and psychologists learn from his injury? Class, The case of Phineas Gage has revealed much to the sciences. Within the topic of neuroscience, many have researched the case of Phineas Gage, but a study done in 2012 looked specifically at the recovery of Phineas Gage rather than the injury. Phineas Gage’s recovery had setbacks, but the fact he lived and went on the be independent enough to travel and work for another 12 years before his death, was nothing short of miraculous. Van Horn, Irimia, Torgerson, Chambers and Kilkiins found his recovery meant that though he did have extensive damage, the injury itself was average in the scheme of brain lesions which explains his recovery and ability to function. All his other setbacks are indicative of white matter loss in the frontal lobe, but not to a major extent. This study has furthered the knowledge of neuroscientists and given a greater understanding of brain lesion, white matter injury and recovery from injury and disease affecting the brain’s white matter. Within the world of psychology, the case of Phineas Gage proved once and for all that the orbitofrontal cortex is the region on the brain connected to social behavior. Other similar cases to Phineas Gage have allow psychologists to study them and their similar changes in behavior which has then led to harder questions such as why other more complex mental abilities remain intact after such injuries as those incurred by Gage (Gazzaniga, Ivry & Mangun, 2013). Understanding which parts of the brain are connected to which behaviors and functions in priceless when it comes to understanding and helping people who suffer. Van Horn, J. D., Irimia, A., Torgerson, C. M., Chambers, M. C., Kikinis, R., & Toga, A. W. (2012). Mapping Connectivity Damage in the Case of Phineas Gage. Plos ONE, 7(5), 1-24. doi:10.1371/. Gazzaniga, M., Ivry, R., & Mangun, G. (2013). Cognitive neuroscience: The biology of the mind (4th ed.). New York, NY: Norton.