What is the Mind in Interpersonal Neurobiology?
Interpersonal Neurobiology defines the MInd as the “Flow of energy and information”. The experience of “Mind” is created at the intersection of our interpersonal relationships and the genetic possibilities of our neurobiology. What is “Experience” from a Neurobiological perspective? From a Neurobiological perspective Experience = the Firing of Neurons. The firing of neurons triggers the growth of new neuronal pathways. Novel, new or different experiences (but not too different, like trauma) create a greater (positive) impact on the brain’s development. It can therefore be hypothesized that psychotherapeutic interventions that introduce difference at a rate that the brain can integrate create the optimal conditions for new neuronal growth. The major tool to create new synapses in the brain is “Attention”. By mindfully focusing our clients’ attention we are developing new pathways in the brain. Mirror Neurons and the Neurobiology of Empathy Mirror Neurons. This is the neurological struct
