Nine functions of the prefrontal cortex
The prefrontal cortex is the part of our brain directly behind our foreheads. It performs numerous tasks, which make us uniquely human.
Neurobiologist Daniel Siegel identifies nine unique functions of the prefrontal cortex. When we perceive danger, we ‘flip our lid.’ The rational prefrontal cortex goes offline, and the primitive, more fast-acting limbic system temporarily takes over. Imagine the impact on our ability to navigate relationships without the nine functions:
Body regulation. Monitoring heart rate, breathing, digestion, etc.
Attuned communication. Effectively interacting with others on an emotional level.
Emotional balance. Navigating ups and downs and avoiding rigidity in our responses.
Response flexibility. The ability to pause and decide what to do before acting.
Empathy. Conscious awareness of and sensitivity towards other’s points of view.
Insight. Mindful awareness of our past and present that enables a realistic image of our future.
Fear modulation. Calming the amygdala when it perceives threats and opportunities.
Intuition. Informing our decision-making with feeling states of the gut and heart.
Morality. Awareness of the larger good and the ability to act accordingly.
For more details, look at Siegel’s book Mindsight: The New Science of Personal Transformation.
I use research by Daniel Siegel and other neurobiologists to understand how brains work. Understanding the internal working of our brains is super helpful for getting control over our emotions, improving our relationships, and achieving life goals.
