Neuroplasticity: The Other Side of the Coin

Neuroplasticity has gained notoriety as a term used to describe the brain's ability to develop new connections following injury, with an implication for functional recovery. From the neonatal brain to an adult stroke survivor, the central nervous system has the remarkable ability to change through experience-dependent plasticity. But what happens when those experiences are negative life experiences rather than positive? Instead of a brain focused on stimulation and rehabilitation, what happens when the developing nervous system is exposed to the neural, biochemical, and hormonal effects of overwhelming stress such as neglect or chronic maltreatment?
Source: Pediatric Neurology - Category: Neurology Authors: Tags: Perspectives in Pediatric Neurology Source Type: research