What constitutes neural pathways in the brain?

Neural pathways in the brain are primarily constituted by connections formed through dendrite connections. Dendrites are the branched projections of neurons that receive signals from other neurons. When neurons communicate with each other, they establish synaptic connections that create a network or pathway for signals to travel. This process is fundamental to learning and memory, as these connections strengthen with use, making the pathways more efficient.

The other choices illustrate different concepts related to brain function but do not define what constitutes neural pathways. Simple reflex actions refer to automatic responses that occur without the involvement of higher brain functions. The capacity to learn new words is an outcome of neural pathways but does not describe the physical connections themselves. Responses to sensory overload relate to the brain's handling of excessive sensory information rather than the structural connections that form neural pathways.