A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

In the context of Casey et al (2011), which brain region is linked to cognitive control in gratification delay?

1. Amygdala

2. Inferior frontal gyrus

3. Ventral striatum

4. Occipital lobe

The correct answer is: Inferior frontal gyrus

The correct association in the context of Casey et al. (2011) is with the inferior frontal gyrus, which is directly linked to cognitive control and decision-making processes related to delaying gratification. This brain region plays a crucial role in self-regulation and the ability to manage impulses, making it significant for tasks requiring the postponement of immediate rewards for larger future rewards. In their research, Casey et al. utilized neuroimaging to investigate how individuals who can delay gratification differ from those who cannot and highlighted the importance of the inferior frontal gyrus in successfully exerting cognitive control. This supports the idea that effective cognitive control mechanisms are vital for managing responses to tempting stimuli. The other regions mentioned, such as the amygdala and the ventral striatum, are more closely associated with emotional responses and reward processing rather than cognitive control specifically. The occipital lobe is primarily involved in visual processing and does not pertain to gratification delay mechanisms.