Written By Laiba Zakir
1.1 Introduction
The intricate relationship between the human brain and behavior forms the foundation of our understanding of human neuroscience. As the master controller of human physiology and actions, the brain serves as the physical manifestation of our cognition, feelings, and behaviors. It is a complex organ comprised of approximately 86 billion neurons, which underlie our ability to perceive and interact with our environment. As such, studying the brain and its many functions allows us to unravel the neurological foundations of our behavior, providing essential insights into human nature and societal interactions. Neuroscience acts as a link, tying together the physical characteristics of the brain with the less concrete concepts of human behavior.
1.2 Unravelling the Mysteries Between Human Behavior And Brain Perception
The exploration of the intricate relationship between human behavior and brain perception represents one of the most interesting aspects of neuroscience. Perception, the brain's interpretation of sensory information, serves as the foundation of our interactions with the world. The brain deciphers incoming signals, giving rise to our conscious experiences, and subsequently driving our behaviors.
However, this process is far from uniform, influenced by several factors that add layers of complexity to our understanding. Notably, two of these factors - genetics and education - have been recognized as important regulators of this brain-behavior dynamic. As we delve deeper, we'll examine how these factors shape our brain's perception and, consequently, our behaviors.
Genetics
Genetics can influence how the brain responds to environmental factors, such as stress or trauma2. Genetics affects the human brain by providing instructions on how it should grow and work. Our genes influence the development of the brain's structure, how its cells communicate, and the chemicals it produces. This, in turn, affects our thoughts, emotions, and actions. Some genes may also impact how we learn, remember things, and even our personality traits. So, our genes play a big role in shaping how our brain functions and influences how we behave and experience the world around us.
Education and Learning
Education and learning have a significant impact on the brain, which in turn affects human behavior. Learning from experiences and education helps individuals adapt their behavior to different contexts3. We modify our actions based on what we have learned, leading to more appropriate responses to various situations. Consequently, this results in behavioral adaptations. Education and learning stimulate the brain, forming new neural connections and strengthening existing ones. This process enhances brain function and cognitive abilities.
2.1 The Impact of Brain Injuries on Behaviors
When someone has a brain injury, it can greatly affect how they behave because the injury damages the brain, which controls our thoughts, feelings, and actions. The impact on behavior depends on how bad the injury is and where it happened in the brain. Different parts of the brain control different things, so if those areas are hurt, it can lead to various changes in behavior. Some common effects of brain injuries include problems with memory, trouble controlling emotions, and changes in personality. People with brain injuries may become more impulsive, or have trouble with social interactions. Their communication skills and physical movements can also be affected. It's essential to know that every brain injury is different, and the changes in behavior vary from person to person.
After a brain injury, some people might become more self-centered4, not really thinking about how their family and friends feel or what they need. This is because, in tough times, everyone tends to focus on themselves, but for someone with a brain injury, this self-centeredness can be much stronger. Because of the injury's impact on their thinking abilities, they may not understand or appreciate other people's feelings or perspectives, and they might not even realize what others need from them.
2.2 Connecting the Dots: Understanding The Relation By A Case Study
Phineas Gage was a construction worker in the 1800s. He had a bad accident where an iron rod went through his head and hurt parts of his brain, including the frontal lobes5. Before the accident, he was considered a well-mannered individual. But, after the injury, something big happened to his behavior. He started acting without thinking, getting easily annoyed, and behaving inappropriately in social situations. His friends and family saw a major change in his personality, and he had a hard time keeping a job because of how different he acted now.
Fig. 1 - View of Gage’s skull as a result of impact6
This study was very important in showing how different parts of the brain are connected to our personality. It showed that when certain areas of the brain, like the frontal lobes, are damaged, it can have a big impact on how we behave and who we are as a person.
Phineas Gage's case is still remembered as a major discovery in brain science7. It helps us understand how the brain controls our behavior and emotions. It also showed how important different brain areas are for how we act and interact with others. This led to more research on how the brain and behavior are linked. It's still talked about when we study brain injuries and how they can change a person's personality.
3.1 The Significance of Understanding the Brain-Behavior Dynamic
Grasping the intricacies of the brain-behavior dynamic is fundamental to the field of neuroscience and bears profound implications for various sectors of society.
Such an understanding aids in developing effective educational strategies and innovative technologies that can potentially enhance cognitive functions. It contributes to our comprehension of mental health disorders, paving the way for better diagnostics and treatments. By unraveling the complexities of this dynamic, we can aspire to build a society that is more attuned to the nuances of human behavior. Furthermore, it helps us make smart choices for ourselves. When we know how our brain influences us, we can work on improving our thinking, emotions, and overall mental health [8].
In summary, knowing about the link between the brain and behavior is essential. It helps us care for others, handle mental health issues, improve ourselves, and make the world better through new knowledge and better treatments.
References
Stirling, J.D. and Elliott, R. (2016) Introducing neuropsychology. Oxford: Routledge.
Martos, C. and About Cinta MartosDegree in Psychology (University of Huelva) and Master in Brain and Behavior with specialization in Clinical Neuropsychology. (University of Seville)Linkedin (2021) Brain-behavior relationship: Are we our brains?, NeuronUP. Available at: https://neuronup.us/cognitive-stimulation-news/brain/brain-and-behavior-relationship/ (Accessed: 26 July 2023).
Owens, M.T. and Tanner, K.D. (2017) Teaching as brain changing: Exploring connections between Neuroscience and innovative teaching, CBE life sciences education. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5459260/ (Accessed: 26 July 2023).
MEDIAmaker (no date) Effects of brain injury, Headway. Available at: https://www.headway.org.uk/about-brain-injury/individuals/effects-of-brain-injury/ (Accessed: 26 July 2023).
By et al. (2023) Phineas Gage: His accident and impact on psychology, Simply Psychology. Available at: https://www.simplypsychology.org/phineas-gage.html (Accessed: 26 July 2023).
Phineas Gage (no date) Vermont History Explorer. Available at: https://vermonthistoryexplorer.org/phineas-gage (Accessed: 26 July 2023).
Teles, R.V. (2020a) Phineas Gage’s great legacy, Dementia & neuropsychologia. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7735047/ (Accessed: 26 July 2023).
Stirling, J.D. and Elliott, R. (2016) Introducing neuropsychology. Oxford: Routledge.
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