AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Comas are caused by damage to the brain, especially if there’s bilateral damage to the cerebral cortex (which means damage on both sides), or damage to the reticular activating system. The reticular activating system controls arousal and awareness of the cerebral cortex.

Detailed explanation-2: -The reticular formation consists of more than 100 small neural networks with varied functions including motor control, cardiovascular control, pain modulation, sleep, and habituation. Bilateral damage to the reticular formation of the midbrain may lead to coma or death.

Detailed explanation-3: -The reticular activating system is the part of the brain that maintains the sleep/wake cycle. Any damage to this region can cause hypersomnolence and drowsiness along with altered sensorium.

Detailed explanation-4: -The brainstem reticular formation (RF) represents the archaic core of those pathways connecting the spinal cord and the encephalon. It subserves autonomic, motor, sensory, behavioral, cognitive, and mood-related functions.