Describe how brain scans have been used in psychology (6)

• para 1: EEGs

  Psychologists have used brain scans to study both the structure and function of the brain. EEGs were an early method, measuring electrical activity via electrodes placed on the scalp. For example, Dement and Kleitman (1957) used EEGs to detect different stages of sleep, finding that REM sleep was linked with dreaming
• Para 2: CAT scans

  CAT scans use X-rays to produce detailed images of brain structure. Johnstone et al (1976) used CAT scans to show that individuals with schizophrenia had enlarged ventricles, suggesting a biological basis for the disorder.
• Para 3: MRI scans

  MRI scans provide more detailed structural images. Maguire et al (2000) used MRI to show that London taxi drivers had larger hippocampi than non-taxi drivers, indicating its role in spatial memory.
• Para 4: PET scans

  Finally, PET scans measure brain activity by detecting radioactive glucose. Raine et al. Used PET scans to study murderers’ brains, finding reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex, an area linked to self-control.