Brainstem & Behavior

The monograph entitled The Brainstem and Behavior, edited by Robert Lalonde, reports on physiological functions undertaken by different parts of the brainstem. Pfaff, Bubnys, and Tabansky describe the role of the reticular formation on arousal, with information completed by Lemaire from a more clinical viewpoint. Berezovskii enumerates general control mechanisms underlying locomotion, while Lalonde focuses on coordinated movements and balance. Gonzalez handles brain regions affecting the specific movements of reaching and grasping, Coubard those affecting eye movements, and Strazielle those affecting orofacial movements. The influence of the brainstem on emotions is described in chapters headed by Serby, Derish, and Roane regarding visual, auditory, and somatosensory hallucinations, and in Almeidas chapter regarding aggression. In the final part of the book, the influence of the brainstem on cognition is described in chapters headed by Williams regarding memory and Lalonde regarding executive functions. Thus, recent and basic information concerning the role of brainstem regions responsible for arousal, movements, emotions, and cognition is described from both clinical and experimental perspectives.