The largest and upper most portion of the brain, the cerebrum, is divided into two hemispheres. Each hemisphere is responsible for different thought processes. The left cerebral hemisphere controls the more analytical thoughts. The right cerebral hemisphere is responsible for more creative thought processes.

Each of the hemispheres is further divided into five lobes. Lobe is the term used to describe a broad region of the brain. Four of the lobes are named for the bones that lie directly above them.

Each of the lobes is responsible for controlling a specific group of activities. However, none of the lobes function independently, there are very complex relationships between the lobes allowing them to act together in unison and harmony.

The location of tumors and other conditions can cause a disturbance in activities controlled by the lobes (or area of the brain) affected. The four main lobes that control the functions of the brain are:

1. Frontal Lobes
2. Parietal Lobes
3. Occipital Lobes
4. Temporal Lobes

Frontal Lobes

The frontal lobes control voluntary muscle movement, intellectual functioning, thought processes, memory and behavior. The frontal lobe of each hemisphere controls movement on the opposite side of the body. Personality is also a function of the frontal lobe. The frontal lobes are used when setting goals and making plans.

Parietal Lobe

The parietal lobes are responsible for receiving and interpreting sensations including pain, pressure and temperature. The parietal lobes receive information from other areas of the brain from the five senses and memory. By combining memory and the new information received, the parietal lobes can give meaning to objects and things around us. For instance, if you touch a stove with you hand these lobes sense the heat and tell you that you will be burned if the hand is not removed.

Occipital Lobes

The occipital lobes are involved in understanding visual images and written words. These lobes allow light to be seen and objects to be identified.

Temporal Lobes

The temporal lobes are primarily involved with the understanding of sounds and spoken words. This region is responsible for controlling language and speech functions. Additionally, the temporal lobes are the primary lobes responsible for memory functions.