Attention deficits: Is there a right hemisphere specialization for simple reaction time, sustained attention, and phasic alertness?

Author(s): Mercier, L., Collard, S., Rochette, A., Hebert, R.

Journal/Book: Brain Cognition. 2000; 43: 525 B St, Ste 1900, San Diego, CA 92101-4495, USA. Academic Press Inc. 17-21.

Abstract: Impairments of attentional focus often are claimed to be associated with lesions of the right hemisphere. Although some studies comparing right- and left-brain-damaged patients have supported this idea, others have not found differences between these patients in various attention tasks. The present study was carried out in order to further investigate the putative role of the right hemisphere in a simple reaction time tusk, a sustained attention task, and a phasic alertness task. Subjects were 46 patients with light-hemisphere lesions and 37 patients with left-hemisphere lesions. Results showed no difference between right- and left-brain-damaged patients in simple reaction time, in speed of response over time (sustained attention), and in the capacity to prepare to an uncoming stimulus (phasic alertness). Future studies will have to use a more precise categorization of lesions than only right-versus left-brain damage.

Note: Article Audet T, Univ Sherbrooke, Dept Psychol, Sherbrooke, PQ J1K 2R1, CANADA

Keyword(s): UNILATERAL BRAIN-DAMAGE

Zurück | Weiter