Cited by 556Neurogenesis and neuroplasticity mechanismsChild and Animal Learning DevelopmentNews Media Framing and Political Communication

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Developmental science and the media: Early brain development.

Thompson, Ross A., Nelson, Charles A.·2001·American Psychologist

DOI 10.1037/0003-066x.56.1.5

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Abstract

Media coverage of early brain development not only has focused public attention on early childhood but also has contributed to misunderstanding of developmental neuroscience research. This article critically summarizes current research in developmental neuroscience that is pertinent to the central claims of media accounts of early brain development, including (a) scientific understanding of formative early experiences, (b) whether critical periods are typical for brain development, (c) brain development as a lifelong process, (d) biological hazards to early brain growth, and (e) strengths and limits of current technology in developmental brain research. Recommendations are offered for strengthening the constructive contributions of research scientists and their professional organizations to the accurate and timely coverage of scientific issues in the media.

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Authors: Thompson, R. A., & Nelson, C. A.
Affiliations: University of Nebraska–Lincoln (US)
ORCID: Thompson, Ross A.
Nelson, Charles A.
Venue: American Psychologist
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Published: 2001
Volume: 56
Issue: 1
Pages: 5-15
ISSN: 0003-066X (ISSN-L)
1935-990X
DOI: 10.1037/0003-066x.56.1.5
OpenAlex: W2074254586
Cited by: 556
References: 45
Citations by year: 2026: 21 · 2025: 18 · 2024: 26 · 2023: 28 · 2022: 41 · 2021: 33 · 2020: 33 · 2019: 34 · 2018: 38 · 2017: 38 · 2016: 27 · 2015: 32 · 2014: 29 · 2013: 16 · 2012: 22
FWCI: 2.14
Type: journal article
Language: en
Open access: closed
Locations: American Psychologist (publishedVersion)
PubMed (publishedVersion)
Topics: Life Sciences › Neuroscience › Developmental Neuroscience › Neurogenesis and neuroplasticity mechanisms
Social Sciences › Psychology › Developmental and Educational Psychology › Child and Animal Learning Development
Social Sciences › Communication › News Media Framing and Political Communication
Keywords: early brain development, media coverage of science, developmental neuroscience, critical period, science communication, public understanding of neuroscience
MeSH terms: Brain, Child, Child Development, Child, Preschool, Humans, Mass Media

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Developmental science and the media: Early brain development.

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