Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Observing the Transformation of Bodily Self-consciousness in the Squeeze-machine Experiment
Published on: March 8, 2019
Action-dependent plasticity in peripersonal space representations
Elisabetta Làdavas1, Andrea Serino
1Dipartimento di Psicologia, Università di Bologna, Viale Berti Pichat, 5; 40127 Bologna, Italy. elisabetta.ladavas@unibo.it
Abstract:
The space immediately around the body is represented by multisensory integrative processes implemented in frontal and parietal lobes. This network has basically a motor function--that is, planning an approaching or defensive motor response to stimuli presented close to the body. Peripersonal space representations are highly plastic as a function of experience. Indeed, using a tool to act in far space can drive an elongation of peripersonal space representation towards the acting space. In this review functional and dynamic properties of such plasticity are reviewed in light of recent experimental findings from our own group and other laboratories.
Related Concept Videos
Neuroplasticity
Gestalt Principles of Perception
Depth Perception and Spatial Vision
Plasticity
Somatosensation
Schemas

