Brain development - infancy/adolescence Flashcards
When does the brain begin to develop?
During the third week of gestation
From what three processes is the brain formed?
Cell production, cell migration and cell elaboratio
What is cell production?
It is the dividing and multiplying of cells to become neurons. Producing more and more neurons.
What is cell migration?
It is the travelling of neurons through the brain and the nervous system to their final location. Where they are within the nervous system determines their function.
What is cell elaboration?
This is when neurons form new synapses between other neurons which enables more pathways for messages and information.
What is myelination?
The growth of the white fatty myelin around most neurons.
What is the role of myelin on neurons?
Myelin is found around the axon of neurons, acts as insulation and protection and creates the transmission of information more efficient.
When does myelination occur during in infancy?
Myelination begins during foetal development and continues through to early adulthood.
Where does myelination begin during infancy?
Myelination begins in the cerebellum and brain stem before birth.
Describe how infants strengthen synapses
Infants have excess neurons which allows them to absorb more information and strengthen these synapses.
Their motor coordination and cognitive skills increases.
What is synaptic pruning?
It is the weakening and elimination of neurons and synapses that are rarely or not used anymore. It is like fine tuning neural pathways and connections and making the processes most efficient.
What is synaptogenisis?
It is the formation of new synapses
Describe the development of the frontal lobe in infancy
The frontal lobe is one of the last parts of the brain to become myelinated. This is because it receives information from other areas of the brain, integrating it so it can be given meaning and decide on the appropriate response.
Describe myelination in adolescence
Myelination continues through adolescence. More synapses are formed which means they are able to perform more complex tasks.
What is selective specialisation in adolescence?
Selective specialisation is the pruning of excess synapses to allow the remaining cognitive networks toe become specialised. It is most dominant between the ages of 7-11
