The brain’s ability to be modified represents the fundamental concept behind brain plasticity. The change happens at a microscopic level. William James first hypothesized and developed the theory of brain plasticity over 100 years ago, and Jerzy Konorski introduced the term neuroplasticity in 1948. Other researchers associated with this concept include Donald Hebb, who demonstrated that neurons firing together can form new pathways, and Paul Bach-y-Rita, who applied plasticity to stroke patients and their rehabilitation.

Brain plasticity is a very important concept to understand before comprehending many neurological and psychiatric disorders as well as psychological schools of thought and studies. The structure, function, and efficacy of connections involved during synaptic activity at a neuronal level underlie the basic mechanism. Genetic and environmental factors affect the process, ...