AO1 - Hemispheric Lateralisation

• Hemispheric lateralisation - The brain is split into two symmetrical halves called the left and right hemisphere. (1) This is the idea that two different hemispheres are responsible for different mental processes. (1) For example, the left hemisphere is responsible for language
• The left hemisphere is responsible for language, as the two main language centres are located in the left hemisphere. Broca's area is responsible for speech production (1) and Wernicke's area is responsible for understanding language. (1)
• The right hemisphere is responsible for recognition of faces, places, objects and creativity (1) and can only produce rudimentary words and phrases but contributes to the emotion context of what is being said. (1)
• The brain is contralaterally wired meaning that:

  • Left hemisphere receives information from the right visual field and controls the right side of the body
  • Right hemisphere receives information from the left visual field and controls the left side of the body