What psychological concept is closely associated with enhancing neurotransmission through synaptic changes?

Study for the AMSCO AP Psychology – Cognitive Psychology Test. Dive into flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each equipped with hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

The correct answer is associated with long-term potentiation, which refers to a lasting increase in the strength of synaptic transmission between two neurons. This process is considered fundamental to learning and memory formation. When certain patterns of stimulation occur repeatedly, it causes an increase in synaptic efficacy, making it easier for neurons to communicate. This synaptic strengthening is believed to be one of the key mechanisms underlying memory storage and retrieval.

Long-term potentiation illustrates how experiences can lead to physical changes in the brain, facilitating improved communication between neurons involved in recalling information. This concept is essential for understanding how learning occurs at a biological level.

The other options, while related to cognitive psychology, do not directly pertain to the enhancement of neurotransmission through synaptic changes. Memory retention pertains to the ability to keep information over time, eidetic memory refers to the ability to recall images with high precision after brief exposure, and relearning involves reacquiring knowledge that was previously learned but forgotten. These concepts are important in the study of cognition but do not directly describe the synaptic mechanisms involved in enhancing neurotransmission as long-term potentiation does.

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