Chapter 31, Problem 6A

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

Behaviours that are tightly regulated by genes with no consideration of past experience are called Innate Behaviours.These are the behaviours that occurred spontaneously in all members of a species whenever they are subjected to a stimulus.Innate patterns do not need to be taught or practiced.

Answer to Problem 6A

Correct answer:

The correct answer is Option (c) fixed action pattern.

Explanation of Solution

Explanation/justification for the correct answer:

Option (c) fixed action pattern. A Fixed action pattern is a repetitive sequence of actions caused by a cue, also known as Key Stimulus. This series is unchangeable and will be completed once begun, regardless of the changes in the original stimulus. Therefore, it is a correct answer.

Explanation for incorrect answer:

Option (a)Habituation- Habituation is a basic form of learning in which an animal ceases to react to a stimulus, or cue, after duration of repeated exposure. This is a type of non- associative learning, which mean that the stimulus is not connected with any punishment or reward. Thus, this answer is incorrect. Option (b)Classical conditioning- Classical conditioning (also known as Pavlovian conditioning) is learning by interaction and has been found by Pavlov, a Russian physiologist. When an association between an environmental stimulus and naturally occurring stimulus takes place, it results in the learning process or classical conditioning.

Option (d)Operant conditioning- In Operant conditioning, an animal learns to associate its response to a stimulus with a reward or punishment.

B.F skinner, an American psychologist carried out experiments on operant conditioning. Thus, this answer is incorrect.

Conclusion

Fixed Action Pattern is the type of behaviour which is genetically based and not linked to past experience. Hence, the correct answer is option (c) fixed action pattern