The mirror neuron system
May 1st, 2009
Parma, Italy
Luigi Cattaneo, Giacomo Rizzolatti
Mirror neurons are a type of neuron that fire both when an individual is performing a task, and when that same individual is observing someone else perform the same task. Research suggests that mirror neurons underpin mechanisms of observational learning and understanding people's intentions and behaviors.
Archives of Neurology
DOI: 10.1001/archneurol.2009.41
Posted byMahmoud Said
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Abstract/Description
Mirror neurons are a class of neurons, originally discovered in the premotor cortex of monkeys, that discharge both when individuals perform a given motor act and when they observe others perform that same motor act. Ample evidence demonstrates the existence of a cortical network with the properties of mirror neurons (mirror system) in humans. The human mirror system is involved in understanding others' actions and their intentions behind them, and it underlies mechanisms of observational learning. Herein, we will discuss the clinical implications of the mirror system.
