During the first year of life, the brain and nervous system grow very quickly. Define the
following processes of brain development in infancy: synaptogenesis, pruning, plasticity,
myelinization.
What role does the environment play in brain development?
What will be an ideal response?
1. Synaptogenesis – the formation of new synapses,the connection between neurons. Many, occurs in
spurts, continues throughout life-span, but most dramatic during infancy.
2. pruning – purging or destruction of unused synapses; permits efficiency; smooth muscle movement.
3. plasticity – changes can be made as a result of exposure to environmental agents.
4. myelinization – myelin (fatty) sheaths (covers) insulate axons; allow for efficiency and increase
speed of neural impulses; most rapid during first two years of life. Environmental agents can enhance
or limit brain and nervous system development. Sufficient human stimulation and consistent care-
giving can enhance; poor nutrition, lack of stimulation or other environmental toxins such as lead can
limit.
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Behavioral interventions for substance us disorder:
a.) Are generally successful b.) Are rarely successful c.) Have had the most success when they are the sole form of treatment d.) Work best in combination with either biological or cognitive approaches.
Your father says he has heard for years about the benefits of exercise, but he doesn't have the time. Besides, he doesn't have the money for a membership in a fitness club. You encourage him to engage in physical activity and he finally says,
"Show me how I can without great expense and time." What would you say to him? a) "You can fit some physical activity into your daily schedule." b) "The benefits of exercise far outweigh the cost and time involved." c) "Exercise just before you go to bed and it will help you get to sleep faster." d) "Look, the vast majority of people in the country are now engaged in a program of exercise."