Biopsychology 2/15

Question 1

Define plasticity

Answer 1

Brain’s tendency to change and adapt (functionally and physically) as a result of experience and new learning.

Question 2

What five things must be used to evaluate localisation of function?

Answer 2

Brain scan evidence
neurological evidence
case study evidence
Lashley’s research and plasticity
and the equipotentiality theory.

Question 3

Synaptic pruning

Answer 3

As we age, rarely used connections are deleted and frequently used connections are strengthened.

Question 4

Axonal sprouting

Answer 4

Undamaged axons grow new nerve endings to reconnect neurons whose links were injured or severed.

Question 5

Recruitment of homologous areas

Answer 5

Regions on opposite sides of the brain take on functions of damaged areas.

Question 6

Functional recovery

Answer 6

Form of plasticity. Following damage through trauma, the brain’s ability to redistribute/transfer functions performed by damaged areas to other, undamaged areas.

Question 7

Neural plasticity

Answer 7

Describes the brain’s tendency to change and adapt - functionally and physically - resulting from experience and new learning.