dendritic spine

a mushroom-shaped outgrowth along the dendrite of a neuron, which forms a synapse with the axon terminals of neighboring neurons. Research suggests that neurons develop dendritic spines as part of an organism’s learning process. Also called dendritic thorn.

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Psychology term of the day

January 3rd 2025

unipolar disorder

persistent or pervasive depression that does not involve a manic episode, a hypomanic episode, or a mixed episode. As such, it contrasts with bipolar disorder. The term is sometimes used synonymously with major depressive disorder. Also called unipolar depression.