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Common Examples Of Stereotypic Behavior In Primates

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Stereotypic Behavior Stereotypic behavior is automatic behavior that serves no realistic function but is still retained by an organism. It can be found in many organisms, but typically only in vertebrates. Invertebrates have repetitive behavior, but not stereotypic behavior. It has been scrutinized by many scientists, and there have been a few inconclusive theories produced based on research. There are many types of stereotypic behavior. Wall-seeking behavior is a very common example of stereotypic behavior that can be found in the likes of mice, rabbits, and even primates and humans. It displays itself in the form of an organism choosing to reside by a wall or wall-like structure instead of in the open. Another example is that some newborn human babies will cling to a rope so tight that they can be carried by it. This is because in primates, a baby must be able to grasp its mother as she travels without falling. Sometimes birds will feed small fish if their own babies died. It is not to help the fish, but instead it is an innate act that they feel they must carry out. …show more content…

While there are no definite psychological explanations as to why this behavior occurs, it is considered to be important to the development of humans. It can be used as milestones for infants in the developmental process. There are other theories, however, that any change in the environment could cause stereotypic behavior in young human children. Supporters of this theory claim that as much as 84% of these behaviors can be attributed to external or environmental factors. Some of these changes include a change in people surrounding the baby or a change in home, which would cause the child to cry or kick for no other apparent

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