social cognition- mirror neuron system

Question 1

mirror neurons

Answer 1

set of specialized neurons located in the premotor cortex; the supplementary motor area; the primary somatosensory cortex; and the inferior parietal cortex

they are activated when the individual observes motor actions of others or when they themselves perform motor actions

Question 2

Goldman and Gallese

Answer 2

suggested that there is a strong link between mirror neurons and understanding intention in others

by identifying and reenacting the observed behaviours using our motor system, mirror neurons can then be used to understand the intentions behind these actions

as intention is a key part of perspective taking, the activity of mirror neurons can also be considered as the neural mechanism for this process

Question 3

Ramachandran

Answer 3

placed emphasis on the role of MN in development of humanity as a social process

suggested that the evolution of MN, acquired through natural selection, gave humans an evolutionary advantage and increased their chance of survival

this is because MN facilitating the learning of language, improving communication skills, and advanced practical skills, by observing others

Question 4

Oberman and Ramachandran

Answer 4

explain autistic spectrum disorders with neurological deficits involving MN and the broken mirror neuron hypothesis

Question 5

broken mirror neuron hypothesis

Answer 5

faulty mirror neuron system can result in issues with social communication such as an inability to understand the intentions and emotions of others