Final answer:
During childhood, one important brain change is the elimination of unneeded synapses, a process known as synaptic pruning. This helps optimize essential neural connections for better cognitive functioning. Therefore, the correct answer is that unneeded synapses are eliminated.
Explanation:
Brain Changes During Childhood
During childhood, the brain undergoes significant changes to optimize its function. One of the critical processes is the elimination of unneeded synapses, a phenomenon known as synaptic pruning. This process helps to refine neural connections, making the brain more efficient in processing information and responding to the environment.
In contrast to lateralization and myelination, which can increase or remain stable, synaptic pruning actively removes excess neurons and synapses that are not frequently used. This leads to a more streamlined and effective neural network. Thus, among the options given:
- A. lateralization decreases - Not true; lateralization may increase in certain functions.
- B. myelination decreases - Not true; myelination typically increases.
- C. hemispheres become more separate - Not true; they often become more integrated.
- D. unneeded synapses are eliminated - This is correct and represents a key change in brain development.
This pruning is crucial for cognitive development and contributes to improved learning and memory capabilities.
Learn more about brain changes here:
https://brainly.com/question/39234847