Phineas Gage lacked _____ because of the damage to his prefrontal cortex.

• A. bladder control
• B. common sense
• C. a conscience
• D. emotional control

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of the prefrontal cortex in the brain. It is responsible for higher cognitive functions such as decision making, social behavior, and emotional regulation.
2. Consider the historical case of Phineas Gage, a railroad worker who survived a severe brain injury when an iron rod penetrated his skull, damaging his prefrontal cortex.
3. Reflect on the changes observed in Phineas Gage after his accident. Reports indicate that his personality changed dramatically, becoming more impulsive and less able to regulate his emotions.
4. Analyze the options provided: bladder control, common sense, a conscience, and emotional control. Determine which of these functions is most closely associated with the prefrontal cortex.
5. Conclude that the damage to Phineas Gage's prefrontal cortex primarily affected his emotional control, as this is a key function of that brain region.