Reticular activating system
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Overview
The reticular activating system or reticular formation is a structure that sits between the medulla oblongata and midbrain and branches into the brain stem. [1] This system dictates the level of arousal or consciousness for the cortex. Sensory and motor impulses travel in between the cerebral cortex, the thalamus, and the RF; this process influences the degree of alertness (or sleep) in a person (Stirling 8) as well as circadian rhythms, respiration, and heartbeat patterns. [2]
Relation to types of brain damage
In the case of hemineglect, or an unresponsiveness to
References
Stirling, John. Introducing Neuropsychology. New York: Psychology Press, 200
