Quick Review of Brain Functions

The brain is a complex organ that is responsible for all of the basic life functions. It is also the brain that registers simple feelings like happiness and anger, as well as more complicated emotions like compassion and empathy. Scientists examine the brain in several ways, but one of the easiest ways to describe brain function is to discuss the location and purpose of each major part of the brain.

Brainstem

• The brainstem consists of the midbrain, the pons and the medulla oblongata. It connects the brain to the spinal cord and is the oldest and most primal part of the brain. The brainstem controls survival functions such as breathing, heart rate, blood pressure and alertness. A severe injury to the brainstem is usually fatal.

Cerebellum

• The cerebellum is another ancient part of the brain. It nestles just above the brainstem and controls voluntary motor functions like walking, running, sitting and standing. The cerebellum is also responsible for controlling balance and muscle tone. An injury to the cerebellum may cause a person to lose his or her equilibrium.

Temporal Lobes

• The temporal lobes of the brain are located on the sides of the head, directly above the ears. They are found in between the cerebellum and frontal lobe. The temporal lobes control hearing, acquiring and forming new memories, and some visual perceptions. Diseases like Alzheimer's, which cause short-term memory loss, often begin in the temporal lobes.

Occipital Lobe

• The occipital lobe is located at the back of the brain. Its main function is vision. For instance, it controls the ability to recognize colors and objects. According to BrainMind, damage to the right occipital lobe can cause complex visual hallucinations.

Parietal Lobe

• The parietal lobe is located in the upper back part of the brain. It is responsible for touch perception, such as knowing whether an object is hot or cold, fine motor movements such as setting a wristwatch or turning on a television set, and goal-directed movements. A person with damage to the parietal lobe may have trouble accomplishing the activities of daily living such as getting dressed or preparing a meal.

Frontal Lobe

• The frontal lobe is located in the upper front part of the brain. A large frontal lobe is unique to humans. Its functions include consciousness of oneself in one's environment, self-awareness, judgment, behavioral inhibitions, emotional responses and expressive language. Memory for habits also resides in the frontal lobe. According to NeuroSkills, a person with frontal lobe damage is often impulsive, emotionally inappropriate or immature, and unable to conform to the rules of society.