myelin sheath

the insulating layer around many axons that increases the speed of conduction of nerve impulses. It consists of myelin and is laid down by glia, which wrap themselves around adjacent axons. The myelin sheath is interrupted by small gaps, called nodes of Ranvier, which are spaced about every millimeter along the axon. Also called medullary sheath.

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Psychology term of the day

February 21st 2025

reflection of feeling

a statement made by a therapist or counselor that is intended to highlight the feelings or attitudes implicitly expressed in a client’s communication and to draw them out so that they can be clarified. Also called reflection response.