A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

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What does contralateral control refer to in the context of psychology?

Control of both sides of the body by the same hemisphere
Each side of the body is controlled by the opposite hemisphere
Complete independence of hemispheres
Direct brain control over muscle response

The correct answer is: Each side of the body is controlled by the opposite hemisphere

Contralateral control refers to the phenomenon where each hemisphere of the brain governs the opposite side of the body. This means that actions or sensations on one side are processed in the opposite hemisphere. For example, motor commands issued from the left hemisphere control movements on the right side of the body, while sensory information from the right side is processed in the left hemisphere. This concept is crucial for understanding how the brain organizes and integrates functions related to bodily control and sensory perception. The other options describe different aspects of brain activity or control. One option suggests that a single hemisphere controls both sides, which does not account for the distinct roles that each hemisphere plays in managing opposite sides. Another option proposes complete independence of hemispheres, implying that they would not functionally interact, which contrasts with the reality of their interdependence in numerous tasks. The last option describes a direct control that lacks specificity regarding lateralization, neglecting the essential aspect of contralateral processing.