Critical Period
Definition
In psychology, the critical period refers to a specific time during development when an organism is most sensitive to environmental influences or stimuli. During this time, certain behaviors and abilities can be learned more easily than at other times.
Analogy
The critical period is like the 'happy hour' at a restaurant. There's a specific window of time where you can get special deals that aren't available outside of those hours.
Related terms
Sensitive Period: A time during an organism's development when it is more responsive to certain stimuli, but the absence of those stimuli does not always result in irreversible consequences.
Imprinting: A form of learning occurring at a particular age or a particular life stage that is rapid and apparently independent of the consequences of behavior.
Neuroplasticity: The brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life.
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