Chapter 31, Problem 11A

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

Imprinting is a critical period of time in an animal’s life when it learns to form attachments and develops its own identity.

Answer to Problem 11A

Correct answer:

The correct answer is option (d) Learning period.

Explanation of Solution

Explanation/justification for the correct answer:

Option (d) Imprinting is a specialized form of learning that occurs in young animals at a time when it learns to perform a behavior by getting a reward or a punishment followed by the behavior. Example: Ducks imprinting on their mother. Hence, this option is correct.

Explanation for incorrect answer:

Option (a) Nurturing period in the animal kingdom is the time period taken by mothers to teach their babies, as they take steps to protect, nurture and raise their young ones. Children are allowed to learn in natural settings. Hence, this option is incorrect.

Option (b) Cognitive period is a time period where the young ones process to learn, develop a perception, build memory and try decision making roles in their behaviors. Cognition includes all the ways in which animals take the information in through the senses and then decide to act on it. Hence, this option is incorrect.

Option (c) Sensitive period refers to the period that helps the organism to develop and become stronger. Experience modifies the behavior of animals anytime during their lifespan. The Concept of Sensitive Periodrefers to a period of time when a child's interests are focused on developing a particular skill and knowledge in a certain area. Hence, this option is incorrect.

Conclusion

The learning period in an animal Option (d) is a period when the animal’s young ones are exposed to a proper stimulus of specialized learning.