Biopsych -> Plasticity & Functional Recovery

Question 1

Brain Plasticity

Answer 1

Brain plasticity is the ability of the brain to modify the structure & function based on experience.
Plasticity allows the brain to cope better with the indirect effects of brain damage, such as swelling or haemorrhage following a road accident, or the damage resulting from inadequate blood supply following a stroke.

Question 2

Strengths of Brain Plasticity

Answer 2

Increase in grey matter
&
Permanent change
Meditation
&
Taxi drivers

Question 3

Functional Recovery

Answer 3

Functional recovery is where the brain recovers abilities previously lost due to brain damage, it is an example of plasticity. Research suggests that young brains are more plastic, however, the brain is capable of plasticity and functional recovery at any age. Studies have suggested that women recover from a brain injury quicker than men do.

Question 4

Neuronal Unmasking -

Answer 4

Dormant synapses are activated to compensate for damaged areas of the brain. Structural changes support neuronal unmasking, such as axon sprouting, reformation of blood vessels and recruitment of homologous areas.

Question 5

Neural Reorganisation -

Answer 5

Transfer of functions from damaged areas of the brain to undamaged ones. Neural reorganisation is greater in children than in adults.

Question 6

Neural Regeneration –

Answer 6

Growth of new neurons and/or connections (axons and dendrites) to compensate for damaged areas.

Question 7

Strength of functional recovery

Answer 7

Practical applications
Development of techniques

Question 8

Weakness of functional recovery

Answer 8

Variable factors
cognitive reserve
Age
neural reorganisation