foundations of learning Flashcards
(10 cards)
How does the brain wire itself to handle the world?
It wires itself based on typical experiences, forming expectations through patterns of neural activity and environmental interaction.
What determines if a neuron activates and forms a connection?
The number of active inputs in its receptor field; “cells that fire together wire together.”
: What causes a neuron to signal and adapt?
Deviations from baseline activity (more or fewer APs); persistent signaling causes synaptic changes.
How do synapses change with activity?
Short-term: more NT release and receptor channels. Long-term: growth of new synapses and dendritic spines.
What are the behavioral effects of synaptic change
Optimized behavior (faster response or ignoring noise) and new behavior (connecting unrelated info or rerouting pathways).
What did lesion studies reveal about memory?
No single cortical memory area; damage severity, not location, affects memory—though some areas (e.g., V4, fusiform) are specialized.
What did H.M.’s and Korsakoff’s cases show about memory
H.M. had anterograde amnesia but intact skills; Korsakoff’s patients had both anterograde and retrograde amnesia and impaired awareness.
What causes PTSD and how does it affect memory?
A mix of threat and helplessness; traumatic memories persist, causing flashbacks, nightmares, and cognitive issues.
What role do hormones play in memory and PTSD?
Stress hormones like adrenaline enhance emotional memory consolidation and may worsen PTSD.
Why is the amygdala crucial for emotional memory?
it helps form emotional associations; damage results in emotional flatness and impaired fear learning.
