Psychotherapeutic Perspective of Cerebral Lateralization

Kim, Hye Geum; Koo, Bon Hoon

Abstract

The human brain is composed of two hemispheres. Both hemispheres exhibit functional differences from one another, and each brain function is lateralized to their own respective side. The left hemisphere is responsible for linguistic functions, conscious problem solving, the processing of sequential information, social behaviors, positive emotions and secondary cognitive processes. Conversely, the right hemisphere is tasked with visuospatial functions, musical ability, physical emotional self consciousness, evasive behavior, low self esteem, sadness, shame, unconsciousness, and primary cognitive processes. Several psychopathologies may occur when the two hemispheres cannot be adequately integrated with one another. Thus, it is the mechanism of psychotherapy to reintegrate what was disconnected throughout this process. The therapist should be well versed and well aware of all of the distinct characteristics, attributes and functions that each hemisphere embodies, and after careful analysis, should be able to instruct the patient on strategies that will integrate the emotional components of the brain alongside with its logical components. In doing so, this can in addition, help patients to integrate their disconnected memory system or emotional system.