In neo-Piagetian skill theory (Granott, Fischer), a cognitive structure used in the process of bridging. A shell consists of a higher-order psychological structure whose specific content is only partially constructed. During the process of bridging, shells function as self-scaffolding structures that support an individual‚was attempt to order knowledge construction in the direction specified by the …
Author Archives: Brian Hopkins
Shared reference
Reference is shared when speakers and listeners are aware of the same set of actions and objects being mentioned in a particular conversation. See Communication, Conversations, Mutual gaze
Shared neural representations
To a large extent the human brain codes visual analysis and motor control in distinct regions. However, there are also overlapping neural networks serving both, especially the perception and production of human movement patterns. These overlapping regions constitute shared neural representations, or shared neural circuitry, for perception and action . See Common coding, Perception-action coupling
Shared environmental influences
Environmental influences that result in within-familial resemblance. See Behavior genetics, Etiology, Nature-nurture debate, Non-shared environmental influences
Shame
The product of a complex set of cognitive activities resulting in a negative emotional state linked to feelings of unworthiness of self, produced by the awareness that one acted dishonorably or foolishly, and heightened by the presence of potential judgments from others. It involves the evaluation of an individual’s actions in regard to her standards, …
Shape constancy
The ability to identify the constant shape of an object despite changes in the angle from which it is viewed and hence differences in the form of the retinal image that it projects. See Size constancy
Shaken baby syndrome
Often precipitated by crying, this refers to violent and excessive shaking of a baby by a caregiver. It may cause bleeding from the small vessels at the back of the eye, brain damage or even infant death in severe cases.
Sexually dimorphic
Having behaviors and physical characteristics that differ for males and females, with for most non-human species males being bigger and more colorful. See Delivery position (presentation), Pelvis/pelvic girdle, Sex, Sex ratio, Theory of sexual selection
Sexual orientation
The category of individuals with whom one has sex; generally heterosexual, homosexual, or bisexual See Sex role
Sexual imprinting
The process by which early social experience determines the object to which later sexual behaviour will be shown preferentially. In some regards, sexual imprinting is similar to filial imprinting in that both occur during a critical or sensitive period, and both are resistant to extinction or reversal, as well as having profound and lasting effects …