Textbook in PDF format

Sensitive periods occur when unique experiences permanently influence brain development either by their presence or absence. This volume covers underlying brain systems and behaviors that are sculpted by the environment in humans and animals in a search for commonalities. The mechanisms involved, the importance of timing in the process, and factors that can change the brain are discussed in this exciting book. Different chapters examine how experience guides the development of cells, circuits, and function using vision, cortical circuits, and cognition as frameworks. Scientific evidence for effective preventative intervention approaches, including diet, exercise, and music, are included to find ways to maximize child and adolescent development. The adverse effects of early brain injury are also included. As sensitive periods are gaining importance in their application in the real-world, novel statistical approaches for human studies are presented and the importance of sensitive periods are covered by examining the juvenile justice system. The book has interdisciplinary appeal and scholars with an interest in brain resiliency or vulnerability will find it of particular interest.
Preface
Mechanisms Underlying Brain Changes During Sensitive Periods
Development of Functional Properties in the Early Visual System: New Appreciations of the Roles of Lateral Geniculate Nucleus
Maturation of Corticolimbic Functional Connectivity During Sensitive Periods of Brain Development
Microglia and Sensitive Periods in Brain Development
Is Adolescence a Sensitive Period for the Development of Incentive-Reward Motivation?
The Influences of Positive and Negative Factors During Sensitive Periods
Physical Activity, Fitness, and Executive Functions in Youth: Effects, Moderators, and Mechanisms
Nutrition and Brain Development
Understanding Sensitive Period Effects in Musical Training
Sensitive Periods for Recovery from Early Brain Injury
Community Level Impact of Sensitive Periods: Analyses and Applications
Statistical Modeling of Sensitive Period Effects Using the Structured Life Course Modeling Approach (SLCMA)
Capitalizing on Neuroplasticity Across Development to Redirect Pathways from Juvenile Justice Involvement