Discuss strengths and weaknesses of brain scans (6)

• P1: strength

  One key strength of brain scans is that they provide detailed, objective data about the brain’s structure and function, which helps psychologists better understand the biological basis of behaviour.
• Ev1: strength

  For example, MRI scans produce high-resolution images of soft tissue without exposing the patient to radiation, making them ideal for repeated use in research and diagnosis. Maguire et al (2000) used MRI scans to show that London taxi drivers had larger hippocampi than non-taxi drivers, linking this brain region to spatial memory.
• Exp1: strength

  This kind of non-invasive, detailed imaging supports theories about brain localisation and enables researchers to study the brain in living individuals rather than relying on post-mortem studies.
• Link1: strength

  Therefore, brain scans have greatly advanced our ability to explore and validate biological explanations in psychology with greater precision.
• P2: weakness

  However, brain scans also have limitations that can restrict their usefulness in psychological research.
• Ev2: weakness

  For instance, PET scans are very expensive, require radioactive tracers, and cannot be used repeatedly. Additionally , CAT scans expose patients to significant radiation, and both CAT and MRI scans provide mostly structural, not functional, information.
• Exp2: weakness

  These practical and ethical concerns limit how often these scans can be used, especially in longitudinal research or studies involving vulnerable populations. Furthermore, even when functional data is available, interpreting brain activity does not always clearly link to specific thoughts or behaviours.
• Link2: weakness

  As a result, although brain scans are a powerful tool, their cost, ethical implications, and occasional lack of specificity mean they must be used carefully and often alongside other methods.