How Does the Brain Affect Our Lives? - (Part 9)

A Book Review: Younger Brains, Sharper Brains by Eric R. Braverman, M.D.

by Maggie Dail, M.A., Learning Specialist

The Four Types of Memory

Many divide memory differently, but take a look at Braverman’s memory. From his perspective there are four with each one ruled by one of the four brain chemicals.

1. Verbal (auditory) memory –

   1. Needed for: decoding sounds, words, sentences, and stories.

   2. The ability to absorb and retain auditory input.

   3. Found in the temporal lobes.

   4. GABA found here.

2. Visual memory –

1. The ability to absorb and retain visual input.

2. Includes – faces, shapes, designs, surroundings, pictures and symbols

3. Found in the occipital lobes.

3. Immediate memory –

1. Short term – only 30 seconds

2. Visual and verbal

3. Can’t remember recent, but still can remember remote past.

4. Found in the parietal lobes.

5. Ruled by acetylcholine.

4. Working memory-

1. Most important form

2. Ability to absorb, retain and associate with previously learned information.

3. Generally found high in intuitive and introverted people.

Long Term Memory Correlates with Working Memory

• Absorbing and retaining information leads to storing long term

• Working memory also critical for executive function

• Executive function – central organization function of brain

• Frontal lobes regulated by dopamine, handle motor control, concentration, problem-solving skills, planning, retention, — functions of working memory.

• Working memory puts past, present, and future together p. 53-54

Next time we will continue to address Memory, including Vision and Daily Living Activities.