Mirror neurons and relationships

Abstract

The student paper deals with a relatively new phenomenon discovered in the early 1990s: a special brain mechanism called mirror neurons. Mirror neurons were discovered in experiments with macaque monkeys in the F5 area of their prefrontal cortex. It was noticed that the neurons were activated not only when the subjects practised an act but also when they observed the same action. Thus, the mirror system proved to connect the visual and motor areas of the brain. It was discovered upon further research that a similar system with a similar location exists in the human brain as well. The precondition for the mirror neuron activation, however, is the intention for a specific action. As a result of discovering mirror neuron activity, the theory of brain reading was formed, which deals with imagining mental states of others. This ability helps us to predict reactions of others and create functional relationships. Two different theories attempt to explain this concept. The first one is called the theorytheory, which attributes the understanding of people’s mental states to »folk psychology«. The second one is called simulation theory and explains brain reading as an imitation of people’s mental states. So far, the simulation theory has been better accepted. Apart from the brain system mentioned, body language also explains our mentality. Mirror neurons also enable us to understand the phenomenon of empathy better. Lastly, the new and not yet fully understood mirror system is undoubtedly very useful in the process of (psycho)therapy, helping the therapist and the client build a closer and better therapeutic relationship, which is the basis for a successful therapy.