Abstract

Sex differences pertain to physical variabilities as well as brain processes. It is thought that these processes vary because of the neurochemical differences between males and females. A main cognitive difference is the way working memory is processed between the sexes. This is tested by using the n-back task which is associated with verbal working memory. This study also examined the effects of concussions on the brain because a trauma to the brain has been shown to disrupt neurological pathways especially working memory. Students were recruited from The College of Wooster. Males and females that have or have not experienced a concussion in the past participated. The n-back task was used to measure the accuracy and reaction times for each participant. The results showed that females, overall, scored higher on the n-back task and there was a trend for females being more affected by concussions than males. This provides evidence that there is a possibility for females to need more head protection and different recovery protocol after a concussion than their male counterparts. Overall, there were not enough males that participated in this study. A larger group of male participants would be essential to show more meaningful results.

Advisor

Herzmann, Grit

Department

Psychology

Disciplines

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Publication Date

2019

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2019 Erica White