Sleep deprivation impairs functioning of the
A. endocrine system. C. occipital lobe.
B. prefrontal cortex. D. left temporal lobe.
I put D
Since lack of sleep produces problems with thinking and decision making, I would pick B.
The correct answer is B. prefrontal cortex.
Sleep deprivation, which refers to not getting enough sleep or having poor-quality sleep, can have significant effects on the functioning of the brain. The prefrontal cortex, located at the front of the brain, is particularly vulnerable to the negative impacts of sleep deprivation.
To arrive at the answer, it is important to understand the function of the prefrontal cortex. The prefrontal cortex is involved in various complex cognitive processes, including decision-making, attention, impulse control, and working memory. It plays a crucial role in higher-order executive functions.
When an individual is sleep-deprived, the prefrontal cortex becomes less active and less efficient. This can result in impaired cognitive function, including decreased alertness, difficulty concentrating, reduced problem-solving abilities, and impaired decision-making. Sleep deprivation can also disrupt emotional regulation, making individuals more irritable and less able to handle stress.
The other options mentioned in the question are not directly related to the impairments caused by sleep deprivation:
A. The endocrine system is responsible for the production and regulation of hormones, which is not directly affected by sleep deprivation.
C. The occipital lobe is primarily responsible for visual processing, and while sleep deprivation can affect vision, it does not specifically impair the occipital lobe.
D. The left temporal lobe is involved in various aspects of language processing, memory, and auditory perception. While sleep deprivation can impact memory and cognitive functions, it does not specifically target the left temporal lobe.
Remember, when faced with multiple-choice questions, it is essential to consider the functions and relationships between different body systems or brain regions to determine the correct answer.