The brain can adapt, heal, renew itself after trauma, and compensate for disability. Begley documents how this paradigm shift is transforming both our understanding of the human mind and our approach to deep-seated emotional, cognitive, and behavioral problems.

Includes bibliographical references (p. [263]-275) and index.

Can we change? Challenging the dogma of the hardwired brain -- Th enchanted loom; The discovery of neuroplasticity -- New neurons for old brains; Neurogenesis -- A child shall lead them; The neuroplasticity of young brains -- Footprints on the brain; Sensory experience reshapes adult brains -- Mind over matter; Mental activity changes the brain -- Nature through nurture; Turning on genes in the brain -- Blaming Mom? Rewired for compassion -- Transforming the emotional mind; Challenging the happiness "Set point" -- Now what?.