Psychology Topic 4 Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the definition of plasticity?

Plasticity refers to the brain's ability to change throughout the lifespan as a result of experience.

What does developmental plasticity refer to?

It refers to changes in neural connections as a result of environmental interactions induced by learning during development.

What are the five forms of developmental plasticity?

Proliferation, Neural migration, Myelination, Synaptogenesis, Synaptic pruning.

What is adaptive plasticity?

It refers to the brain's ability to change in response to everyday experiences and to compensate for damage. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between rerouting and sprouting?

Rerouting involves making a new connection with an active neuron, while sprouting involves the growth of dendrite fibers to make new connections. Signup and view all the answers

What is a neurodegenerative disease?

A neurodegenerative disease refers to a progressive loss of function of neurons due to damage or synaptic impairments. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Plasticity

Plasticity indicates the brain's lifelong capacity to adapt and reorganize itself based on experiences.

Developmental Plasticity

Developmental plasticity involves changes in neural connections shaped by environmental interaction and learning events from conception to adolescence.
It arises from a combination of genetic factors and experiential influences, explaining why childhood is a critical period for skill acquisition.

Five Forms of Developmental Plasticity

Proliferation: Rapid division and multiplication of cells in an unborn baby.
Neural Migration: Neurons travel to their designated locations within the brain.
Myelination: The formation of a fatty sheath (myelin) around axons, crucial for speed of neural communication, beginning in fetal development and continuing into adulthood.
Synaptogenesis: The rapid formation of synapses, contributing significantly to early brain development.
Synaptic Pruning: A process that eliminates excess axons and connections, enhancing the efficiency of brain functioning.

Adaptive Plasticity

Adaptive plasticity enables the brain to modify itself in response to daily experiences and to recover functionality after injury.

Rerouting and Sprouting

Rerouting involves forming new connections from neurons to active neurons, compensating for lost functions due to brain damage.
Sprouting is the growth of dendritic fibers, allowing neurons to establish new connections, which is essential for ongoing learning and adaptation.

Neurodegenerative Disease

Neurodegenerative diseases entail progressive neuronal function loss, stemming from direct neuronal damage or synaptic dysfunction, leading to diminished cognitive abilities.

Description

Explore essential terms related to plasticity in psychology with these flashcards. Learn about the brain's ability to adapt and the impact of environmental interactions during development. Perfect for students looking to enhance their understanding of psychological concepts.