Neuroplasticity is…
the brain’s ability to change its own structure and function (creating new neurons [connectors] and new
connections).


Originally, the brain was thought of as a “machine” with specialized parts for tasks (localization)
Scientists found in the 1960-1970s that the brain can change its own structure (where things are
located) and function (what areas do what tasks) through thought and activity. If certain parts
failed or were not working, that other parts could take over, which was the beginnings of our
understanding of neuroplasticity.
Examples of how neuroplasticity can happen/occur




Can produce more flexible but also more rigid behaviors. Once a plastic change occurs and
becomes well established (repeated, practiced), it can prevent other changes from occurring.
Plasticity can have positive or negative effects- ex. OCD, phantom limb, blindness, injury
Each person’s brain architecture/setup can be different- ex. Right hemisphere for language;
however, the current model (you have this sheet) is based on fMRI studies across many people
and is the organization in most humans.
Patterns of thinking/mindsets can be changed
memories, learning, new abilities can change the brain
Why does the brain change itself?



In response to injury
In response to differences in anatomy/structure
In response to learning
Age and neuroplasticity

Is there an age limit?
o Children’s brains change more rapidly, and more overall
o However, it can happen throughout the lifespan
 i.e. taxi drivers memorizing streets- changes in their hippocampus (bigger)
Principles of neuroplasticity:



Neurogenesis: Creation of new brain cells
o certain areas, including hippocampus, can create new cells throughout lifespan
Hebb’s rule: neurons that fire together, wire together. Meaning the more that neurons
communicate with one another, the stronger their connection will be. Similarly, connections that
are not used will be lost.
BDNF- a protein that regulates cell birth and cell death
o i.e. if a cell receives this during development, it survives, but as we age, cells must
compete for this protein from what is available in our brain and gut.
o Abnormally low BDNF diseases: Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Alzheimer’s
disease, and Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
What limits neuroplasticity?



severe stress or adversity leads to a loss of synapses (less communication and less signals)
o i.e. depression and post-traumatic stress disorder- brain gets into a rut of negative
thinking/feeling/behaving or fear-based memories.
Aging- cognitive decline starts at 35
Injury/disease/illness
What encourages Neuroplasticity?


Physical activity- aerobic activity- increases BDNF
Antidepressants- increase BDNF

Engaging in positive social interactions

LEARNING!

Engaging in play

Being in enriched and stimulating environments

Practicing and repeating positive activities—even mentally rehearsing them

Engaging in mental training strategies such as mindfulness meditation

Developing a sense of purpose in life