Are motor neurons in the brain that have a role in controlling movement. These neurons are activated when a specific movement or action is observed in others and when that same movement or action is acted upon. For example a mirror neuronal system that fires when you raise your hand, is also activated when you see a person raise their hand.
Brief History
- 1980's- Dr. Rizzollati first observed mirror neurons in macaque monkeys
- 1990's- Mirror neurons were officially discovered by Dr. Rizzollati
- 1995- The first study on mirror neurons was conducted on humans
- present- studies on mirror neurons involve the use of neuro-imaging techniques such as functional magnetic-resonance imaging (fMRI) to better understand how the brain functions.
Citations
Winerman, L. (2005, October 1). The mind's mirror. Retrieved January 17, 2015, from http://www.apa.org/monitor/oct05/mirror.aspx
Pictures
Davila, J. (n.d.). Neuronas Especulares ("Mirror Neurons"). Retrieved January 14, 2015, from http://www.encuentros.uma.es/encuentros114/neuronas.htm