Temporal Lobe

Functions of the Temporal Lobe

• The formation of visual memories, including long-term memories. In conjunction with the amygdala and hippocampus, two structures of the limbic system, the temporal lobe is vital for the formation of conscious memories. 

• Interpreting the meaning of visual stimuli, including recognizing objects. It's not enough to just see an object. For vision to be useful, you must also understand what it is you are seeing. The ventral part of the temporal lobe aids in the assignment of meaning to the sights you take in every day. Without the ventral lobe, you would not be able to recognize faces or read body language. 

• Production of speech. The temporal lobe aids in the production of speech. Dysfunction in this brain area can lead to difficulties speaking, even when other structures are intact or you can consciously think about what you want to say. 

• Recognition of language. The auditory cortex in the temporal lobe is key for hearing and understanding speech, but a range of other structures in the temporal lobe help you understand and give meaning to language. Without the temporal lobe, you could not name objects, remember verbal exchanges, or recognize language. 

• Controlling unconscious and apparently automatic reactions, such as appetite, thirst, hunger. 

• Helping the body maintain homeostasis. Note that this important role is shared by many regions in the brain. 

Structures in the Temporal Lobe

As one of just four lobes in the brain, the temporal lobe is less a discrete organ, and more of a home to numerous other structures. Some of the most important structures in the temporal lobe include:

• Limbic lobe: This brain region actually intersects with several lobes, but interacts directly with the temporal lobe to influence the limbic system, including automatic emotional reactions such as the fight-or-flight response and the limbic system. The limbic lobe is home to key memory, learning, and attention processing structures such as the amygdala and hippocampus. This brain region also manages a number of automatic, unconscious bodily functions, as well as unconscious emotional states, such as sexual arousal and appetite.

• Wernicke's area: This brain region is associated with the understanding and processing of speech.

• Broca's area: This brain region aids in the production of speech, though some evidence suggests that, when Broca's area is damaged, nearby regions may compensate. Together with Wernicke's area, Broca's area aids communication.