Prefrontal cortex

• Where is it?

  Part of the cerebral cortex, right at the front of the frontal lobe.
• What does it do?

  Regulates behaviour and governs social interaction; gives us the ability to delay gratification of an impulse by inhibiting messages from the amygdala.
• Link with aggression?

  Damage to the prefrontal cortex leads to problems with anger management, irritability and impulse control.
• Evidence - case study of Phineas Cage

  • Railway worker in USA.
  • In 1848 an explosive set off early, sending an iron rod through his face and out of his head.
  • It caused damage to his prefrontal cortex.
  • After this, he became irresponsible and aggressive.