Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

Specialized brain cells that fire when an individual sees or hears another perform an action are known as?

1. Facial neurons

2. Mirror neurons

3. Internal neurons

4. Reflective neurons

The correct answer is: Mirror neurons

The term refers to mirror neurons, which are specialized brain cells that activate both when an individual performs an action and when they observe someone else performing that same action. This phenomenon is significant because it suggests a neurobiological basis for empathy, imitation, and learning through observation. Mirror neurons play a crucial role in social cognition, allowing individuals to understand others' intentions and emotions, thereby facilitating communication and social interaction. The discovery of mirror neurons has provided insights into various psychological and neurological conditions, including autism, where the ability to empathize and understand social cues can be affected. This makes mirror neurons a fundamental aspect of understanding human behavior and social dynamics.