Synaptic connections are strengthened or weakened through life experiences and frequency of use
One way neurological circuits change is by the strengthening or weakening of synapses. Different experiences cause synaptic strengths to vary within and across many neural systems, experience shapes the design of circuits. As a result, the design of brain circuits continues to change. The circuits are not only receptive to the results of first experience, but are pliable and modifiable by continued experience.
For example, the right posterior hippocampus, the area of the brain which stores complex three-dimensional maps in space, is larger in London cabbies, taxi drivers with extensive navigational experience. Another vivid demonstration of the principle comes from the left hemisphere of songbirds, which expands during the mating season, and then shrinks again once the mating season is over.
The strength of synapses is influenced by many factors, including the frequency of their use or disuse, or the composition of body chemistry from one situation to the next. Circuits are also weakened or enhanced by other circuits that may interfere with their functions or assist them.
References
-
Mate, Gabor. (1999). Scattered Minds Chapter 16. It Ain’t Over Till It’s Over Unconditional Positive Regard (p. 163). London, UK: Random House.
-
Mcgilchrist, Iain. (2010). The Master and His Emissary Chapter 1 Asymmetry and the Brain (p. 53). London, UK: Yale University Press.
Metadata
Type:🔴 Tags: Biology / Neuroscience Status:☀️