---
title: "Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) — AP Psych Definition"
description: "TMS is a non-invasive tool that uses magnetic fields to stimulate or suppress brain activity, letting researchers test which regions drive specific functions."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/transcranial-magnetic-stimulation-tms"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Psychology"
---

# Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) — AP Psych Definition

## Definition

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in specific areas of the brain. It can be used for therapeutic purposes or as an experimental tool in research studies examining brain functions.

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Neuroplasticity](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/neuroplasticity): Neuroplasticity refers to the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. TMS can be used to investigate how certain areas of the brain contribute to neuroplastic changes.
- [Placebo Effect](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/placebo-effect): The placebo effect occurs when a participant's belief or expectation about a treatment produces an improvement in their condition, even if the treatment itself is inactive. Researchers must consider the potential influence of the placebo effect when studying the effects of TMS.
- [Replication](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/replication): Replication refers to repeating a research study with different participants and researchers to determine if similar results can be obtained. Replication studies help establish the reliability and validity of TMS findings.