Biological Approach: Neuroplasticity

Question 1

Neuroplasticity

Answer 1

The brain can change throughout life.

Question 2

Reasons for Neuroplasticity

Answer 2

• Genetic: pre-programmed development of the brain.
• Environmental: injury, brain damage, learning new skills.

Question 3

Merzenich et al. (1984)

Answer 3

• Sensory inputs from all fingers were mapped in the cortex. To do this, electrodes were inserted in the cortical area known to be responsible for sensation from the hand. Researchers then individually stimulated various places on all the fingers and noted which electrode responded to stimulation. The monkeys were anesthetized before this procedure and had their finger amputated.
• Five distinct areas in the brain were responsible for each finger.
• To conclude, the cortical remapping of sensory inputs from the hand occurs within 62 days.

Question 4

Draganski et al. (2004)

Answer 4

• The aim was to determine whether the human brain can change its structure in response to environmental demands.
• Researchers used a random sampling design and a self-selected sample. They randomly allocated volunteers into two groups: jugglers and non-jugglers.
• Participants in the juggler group subsequently spent three months learning a classic juggling routine with three balls. Then, they spent another three months, during which they were instructed not to practice juggling. The control group just lived their daily lives and had their brains scanned three times on the same schedule as the jugglers.
• To conclude, as you learn a simple juggling routine, certain areas of your brain grow. They shrink significantly when you don’t practice, but perhaps not to the initial state.