Chapter 7: Infant, Child, and Adolescent Brain

Question 1

Define synaptogenesis

Answer 1

Formation of new synapses

Question 2

What are three features of a critical period of development?

Answer 2

1. Lot more response to experiences and a lot more influence that will affect brain development
2. Lots of learning → new pathways, new connections
3. Major biological changes in the brain

Question 3

When does competitive elimination between strong and weak synaptic connections occur?

Answer 3

Adolescence - critical period of development

Question 4

What else occurs during the 2nd critical period of development?

Answer 4

1. Huge increase in connections/ in white matter
2. Rebelling/risk-seeking behaviour - change/hypersensitivity in reward systems

Question 5

What are two types of plasticity?

Answer 5

1. Experience- expectant: formation of connections based on integrating predictive stimuli
2. Experience-dependent: formation of connections based on personal experiences and modifications of pathways in response to unanticipated stimuli