Critical period
Critical period
Critical period (pronunciation: /ˈkrɪtɪkəl ˈpɪəriəd/) is a developmental stage during which the nervous system is especially sensitive to environmental stimuli. If, during this period, the organism does not receive the appropriate stimuli required to develop a given function, it may be difficult or even impossible to develop that function later in life.
Etymology
The term "critical period" is derived from the Greek word "kritikos" meaning decisive, and the Latin word "periodus" meaning a recurring cycle. It was first used in the field of developmental psychology to describe a specific time frame in an organism's development when it is particularly receptive to certain types of environmental stimuli.
Related Terms
- Sensitive period: A time during an organism's life during which it has heightened sensitivity to certain environmental stimuli.
- Neuroplasticity: The ability of the brain to form and reorganize synaptic connections, especially in response to learning or experience or following injury.
- Imprinting: A rapid learning process that takes place early in the life of a social animal and establishes a behavior pattern involving recognition of and attraction to its own kind or a substitute.
- Developmental psychology: The scientific study of how and why human beings change over the course of their life.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Critical period
- Wikipedia's article - Critical period
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