Neuroplasticity Flashcards
7 cards from real RTT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Neuroplasticity flashcards as text
RTT's use of regression to cause identifies the 'ISE' (Initial Sensitizing Event). What neuroplastic role does the ISE play?
Answer: It creates the original neural template that subsequent experiences reinforce
The ISE establishes the first neural encoding of a limiting belief, and later experiences reinforce the same pathway, making the belief feel deeply entrenched.
When a client in RTT has an 'aha' insight during regression, which neurotransmitter surge is most associated with this moment of clarity and reward?
Answer: Dopamine
Dopamine is released during insight moments, creating a reward signal that reinforces the new understanding and motivates integration of the new belief.
Which principle explains why visualizing a positive outcome in RTT hypnosis activates similar neural pathways as actually experiencing it?
Answer: Functional equivalence of imagery and perception
The brain activates largely the same neural circuits whether vividly imagining or actually experiencing an event, making hypnotic visualization neurologically powerful.
A client overcomes a phobia after RTT. Neuroplastically, this is best explained by:
Answer: New inhibitory pathways from the prefrontal cortex overriding the amygdala's fear response
RTT creates new prefrontal-to-amygdala inhibitory connections that can override the old fear response rather than erase the original memory.
In RTT terms, 'the mind does what it thinks you want it to do.' Neuroplastically, this reflects:
Answer: The reticular activating system filtering reality through dominant belief patterns
The reticular activating system (RAS) filters incoming stimuli based on what the brain deems important, confirming existing beliefs by selecting supporting evidence.
Which RTT concept is directly supported by the neuroscientific finding that stress hormones impair prefrontal cortex function?
Answer: Clients must be in a relaxed state for transformation to occur
High cortisol from stress impairs prefrontal cortex reasoning and increases amygdala reactivity, which is why RTT induces relaxation before attempting belief change.
Marisa Peer's RTT stresses that 'words have power.' The neurological basis is that language activates:
Answer: Neural networks tied to sensory, emotional, and motor responses simultaneously
Words trigger widespread neural networks including emotional (limbic), sensory, and motor areas, meaning therapeutic language can activate whole-brain responses that drive change.