Empathy is largely facilitated by which type of neuron?

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Prepare for the MCAT Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Empathy is largely facilitated by mirror neurons. These neurons are a specific type of brain cell that respond both when an individual performs an action and when they observe someone else performing the same action. This mirroring effect allows individuals to understand and resonate with the feelings and emotions of others, forming the biological basis for empathy.

The role of mirror neurons is particularly relevant in social interactions, as they help individuals interpret emotional cues and share in others' experiences, fostering empathetic understanding. This connection is crucial in various social situations, allowing for emotional bonding and the ability to respond compassionately to others' feelings.

The other types of neurons do not play the same role in empathy. Motor neurons primarily control muscle movements, sensory neurons are responsible for transmitting sensory information from the body to the brain, and interneurons serve as connectors within the nervous system but are not specifically linked to the empathetic response in the same way mirror neurons are.