Abstract

While the brain appears to be symmetrical, macroscopic differences or asymmetries between the two hemispheres emerge through careful quantitative study. Functional asymmetries can accompany these structural asymmetries, and these can be a reflection of hemispheric specialization, or the predominant hosting of macroscale functional network and its accompanying functional properties by a given hemisphere. Prior work has identified the specialization of language to the left hemisphere, visuospatial attention to the right hemisphere, and a dual specialization of executive control to both hemispheres. However, it is largely unknown how specialization is characterized at an individual level, particularly in terms of identifying the specific connections that contribute to the specialization of a given network. The present article-style dissertation explores human brain organization through the lens of specialization within individuals. Secondary to this goal is establishing reliable and valid methods for estimating specialization, as well as examining atypical patterns of specialization. Study 1 focuses on identifying specialized networks and investigating the relationships between these networks in neurotypical adults through the use of a novel, surface area-based measure of specialization. After establishing this measure of specialization in neurotypical individuals, Study 2 explores functional specialization within a neurodevelopmental condition, including the potential ramifications of atypical specialization for specific behavioral phenotypes. Taking a different approach to estimating specialization, Study 3 replicates and expands on prior work, examining the underpinnings of network specialization and providing support for principles governing contributions to specialization. Collectively, these studies elucidate the particulars of functional specialization within individuals, illustrating the complexity of brain organization through large-scale networks.

Degree

PhD

College and Department

Family, Home, and Social Sciences; Psychology

Rights

https://lib.byu.edu/about/copyright/