Practise IB Psychology SL 2.1.8 by describing neuroplasticity and environmental effects on physiological processes with research evidence.
Explain neuroplasticity with reference to one relevant study.
Refer to the paper 1 section A markbands when awarding marks.
The command term "explain" requires candidates to give a detailed account of neuroplasticity with reasons or causes.
A detailed account of neuroplasticity could include, but is not limited to:
- a definition of the key term neuroplasticity (biological changes in the brain in response to environmental stimuli)
- long-term potentiation leading to dendritic branching
- the processes of synaptic pruning or cortical remapping.
When describing the study, the relevant area of the brain where neuroplasticity is observed should be identified.
Relevant research may include, but is not limited to:
- Bremner et al.'s (2008) study on plasticity of the hippocampus in post-traumatic stress disorder
- Draganski's (2004) study of neuroplasticity in the mid-temporal area and learning in jugglers
- Luby et al.'s (2012) study of maternal support and hippocampal development
- Maguire et al.'s (2000) study of the hippocampi of taxi drivers
- Rosenzweig, Bennett and Diamond's (1972) animal research on the role of environmental factors on neuroplasticity in the cerebral and occipital cortex
- Merzenich et al.'s (1984) study of cortical remapping in owl monkeys.
If a candidate refers to more than one study, credit should be given only to the first study.
If a candidate explains neuroplasticity without making reference to a relevant study, up to a maximum of [5] should be awarded.
If a candidate only describes an appropriate study without explaining neuroplasticity, up to a maximum of [4] should be awarded
As the question is focused only on the physiological process of neuroplasticity, it is not necessary to demonstrate a behavioural change; studies of cortical mapping are appropriate.