New Studies Have Provided the First Direct Evidence for the Existence

question 136

Multiple Choice

New studies have provided the first direct evidence for the existence of mirror neurons in humans. In these studies, researchers temporarily implanted electrodes in the brains of epileptic patients as part of their preparation for surgery. Researchers recorded the activity of individual neurons while the patients performed simple actions, such as grasping a cup and making facial expressions. Then the researchers recorded neuron activity while the patients simply viewed short video clips and photographs of others executing the same actions. What was one result of these studies?

• A) All neurons were only activated by the performance of a behavior.
• B) All neurons were only activated by the observation of a behavior.
• C) Some neurons were activated by both the performance and the observation of a behavior.
• D) These simple behaviors do not activate neurons in the human brain.

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Definitions:

Reflex

An automatic and involuntary response to a stimulus, which is a basic mechanism of the nervous system.

Curiosity

A strong desire to know or learn something, driving individuals to explore and discover new information or experiences.

Habit

A settled or regular tendency or practice, especially one that is hard to give up.

Secondary Circular Reactions

A stage in Piaget's theory of cognitive development where infants repeat actions that are pleasurable or bring about a desirable outcome.