The mirror neuron system as revealed through neonatal imitation: presence from birth, predictive power and evidence of plasticity.
There is strong evidence that neonates imitate previously unseen behaviours. These behaviours are predominantly used in social interactions, demonstrating neonates' ability and motivation to engage with others. Research on neonatal imitation can provide a wealth of information about the early mirror neuron system (MNS), namely its functional characteristics, its plasticity from birth and its relation to skills later in development. Although numerous studies document the existence of neonatal imitation in the laboratory, little is known about its natural occurrence during parent-infant interactions and its plasticity as a consequence of experience. We review these critical aspects of imitation, which we argue are necessary for understanding the early action-perception system. We address common criticisms and misunderstandings about neonatal imitation and discuss methodological differences among studies. Recent work reveals that individual differences in neonatal imitation positively correlate with later social, cognitive and motor development. We propose that such variation in neonatal imitation could reflect important individual differences of the MNS. Although postnatal experience is not necessary for imitation, we present evidence that neonatal imitation is influenced by experience in the first week of life.
Department of Neuroscience, University of Parma, , Parma 43215, Italy.
Elizabeth A
EA
Simpson
Lynne
L
Murray
Annika
A
Paukner
Pier F
PF
Ferrari
D002657:Child Development / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D007100:Imitative Behavior / Q000502:physiology*; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D059167:Mirror Neurons / Q000502:physiology*; D008960:Models, Psychological; D010287:Parent-Child Relations
mother–infant interaction; mu suppression; neonatal imitation; newborn; sensorimotor; social development