Javier is blind from birth. Robert lost his sight in a boating accident at age 16. Who might have superior touch sensitivities during adult life?
A) Both men will be equal in their touch sensitivity.
B) Javier will be superior, because the neurons programmed for vision have been diverted to strengthen this sense.
C) Robert will be superior, because when he lost his sight, he had better overall coping skills.
D) Neither man will have superior touch sensitivity, as the brain cannot be reprogrammed.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Studies have shown that individuals who are blind from birth have enhanced tactile sensitivity due to the visual cortex being repurposed to process tactile information. This rewiring of the brain may result in better touch sensitivity for Javier. Robert may also have improved touch sensitivity due to compensating for the loss of vision, but it is unlikely to be as pronounced as in individuals who were blind from birth.

Javier Is Blind from Birth