EDF 3110 Lecture Notes - Lecture 7: Synaptic Pruning, Living Sculpture, Kwashiorkor

• School: University of Florida
• Department: Education - Human Development and Organizational Studies
• Course: EDF 3110
• Professor: Melissa Gonzalez

Document Summary

Match the following concepts and key terms with the appropriate description. in developmental. Concepts: cephalocaudal, cerebral cortex, classical conditioning, differentiation theory, habituation. During the first two years, neural fibers and synapses increase at an astounding pace. As neurons form synaptic connections, stimulation becomes vital for their survival. Neurons that are stimulated by input from the surrounding environment continue to establish synapses, forming increasingly elaborate systems of communication that support more complex abilities. At first, stimulation results in a massive overabundance of synapses, many of which serve identical functions, thereby ensuring that the child will acquire the motor, cognitive, and social skills that our species needs to survive. Neurons that are seldom stimulated soon lose their synapses in a process called synaptic pruning that returns neurons not needed at the moment to an uncommitted state so they can support future development.