Mirror neurons are specialized brain cells that activate both when an individual performs an action and when they observe the same action performed by someone else. In infancy, mirror neurons are crucial for imitation, allowing infants to learn new behaviors and skills by watching others. This process is foundational to social learning and the development of communication and empathy.
Reference: Helwig, A. A. (2020). CPCE Study Guide and Review; Santrock, J. W. (2018). Life-Span Development.