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Related Experiment Videos

Neural systems underlying spatial language in American Sign Language.

Karen Emmorey1, Hanna Damasio, Stephen McCullough

  • 1Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California 92037, USA. emmorey@salk.edu

Neuroimage
|October 16, 2002
PubMed
Summary

This study reveals how the brain processes spatial language in American Sign Language (ASL). Classifier constructions uniquely engage bilateral supramarginal gyrus and left inferior temporal cortex, highlighting distinct neural pathways for signed spatial relations.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Linguistics
  • Cognitive Science

Background:

  • Signed languages utilize signing space to represent spatial relationships.
  • Classifier predicates in signed languages schematically depict spatial configurations.
  • Understanding the neural basis of spatial language processing in signers is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the neural regions involved in processing classifier predicates in American Sign Language (ASL).
  • To compare brain activation for ASL classifier constructions versus ASL prepositions and object naming.
  • To explore hemispheric involvement in representing spatial relations through signed language.

Main Methods:

  • Positron Emission Tomography (PET) with [(15)O]water was used to measure brain activity.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Ten deaf native ASL signers participated in the experiment.
  • Participants viewed images and performed tasks involving ASL classifier constructions, ASL prepositions, or object naming.

    • Main Results:

    • Classifier constructions engaged bilateral supramarginal gyrus (SMG), while ASL prepositions engaged only the right SMG.
    • Compared to ASL prepositions, classifier constructions additionally activated the left inferior temporal (IT) cortex.
    • Object naming activated different regions than spatial relation descriptions.

    Conclusions:

    • Processing spatial relations using ASL classifier constructions involves bilateral SMG and left IT cortex.
    • ASL prepositions primarily engage the right SMG.
    • Greater right hemisphere involvement in ASL spatial relations may stem from the use of signing space.