If a child younger than the age of about 4 or 5 were to have a large portion of their brain removed in a necessary surgery
A) they would lose all motor function in their body.
B) they would lose the ability to use language.
C) their bodies would generate enough new neurons to replace the missing cells.
D) their brains are plastic enough that cells intended to serve one function could be turned into cells that serve another function.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The brains of young children are very plastic, meaning that their cells can adapt and take on new functions. Therefore, if a large portion of their brain were removed, the remaining cells could potentially take on some of the functions of the missing cells. This is not to say that there would not be any deficits or challenges, but the brain has a remarkable ability to reorganize itself in order to compensate for damage. Options A and B are not accurate because not all areas of the brain are responsible for motor function or language, and even if they were, the brain has the ability to adapt. Option C is also not accurate because while some new neurons can be generated in certain areas of the brain, it is unlikely that they would be able to replace large portions of missing cells.

If a Child Younger Than the Age of About 4