Question

Certain behaviors do not require past training. Such behaviors tend to be the same in all individuals and are referred to as a. genetically programmed b. instinctual c. innate d. All of the above refer to such behaviors. e. Only b and c refer to such behaviors.

Short answer

The correct answer is (d) All of the above refer to such behaviors.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Terminology

Each possible answer refers to a term which might describe certain automatic behaviors. (a) 'genetically programmed' refers to behaviors that are determined by individual's genetic makeup; (b) 'instinctual' refers to behaviors that are natural or innate, not learned; (c) 'innate' refers to the characteristics or behaviors that an individual is born with; they are a part of one's nature and not caused by learning.

Compare the Terminologies to the Question

Now, compare the terminologies with the question statement. The question is about behaviors that do not require past training and are the same in all individuals.

Select the Correct Answer

Upon comparing, it is clear that all these three terms: 'genetically programmed', 'instinctual', and 'innate', can refer to behaviors that are consistent across individuals without the need of any past training. Therefore, the correct answer is (d) All of the above refer to such behaviors.

Key concepts

Genetically Programmed Behavior

Genetically programmed behavior refers to actions or reactions that are hardwired into an organism's DNA. This means that individuals are born with these behaviors, which have been shaped by evolution to enhance survival and reproduction.

• These behaviors appear in individuals without the need for learning or experience.
• They are consistent among members of the same species.

Examples of genetically programmed behaviors include the migration patterns of birds and the spinning of webs by spiders. These behaviors are passed down through generations, ensuring that each individual possesses the instinct needed for survival.
Understanding genetically programmed behavior helps us comprehend how nature can shape an organism's actions before any learning or social influence takes place. These behaviors offer a fascinating insight into the automatic processes that govern much of the animal kingdom.

Instinctual Behavior

Instinctual behavior refers to actions or reactions that occur naturally without any prior experience or training. Instincts are inherently present from birth, allowing organisms to perform complex tasks without prior knowledge or practice.

• Instincts can include reflexes like blinking or more elaborate behaviors like nest building.
• These behaviors are crucial for immediate survival or fulfilling a basic need.

Unlike learned behaviors, instinctual responses are not influenced by the environment; they are automatic. For instance, a human baby instinctively knows to suckle for nourishment. This demonstrates how these behaviors fulfill vital roles long before the individual can learn from experience. Instinctual behaviors are a significant part of an organism's innate behavior repertoire, bridging the gap between genetics and everyday reactions to the environment.

Nature vs Nurture

The debate of nature vs nurture explores how genetic programming (nature) and environment (nurture) influence behavior and traits in individuals.
While some behaviors are clearly genetic, others can be shaped by environmental factors such as upbringing, culture, and personal experiences.

• Nature emphasizes the role of genetic inheritance and biological factors.
• Nurture focuses on the impact of learning, experience, and external factors.

In reality, most behaviors result from a combination of both nature and nurture. For example, a person might have a genetic predisposition for certain talents, but those skills may only be developed through practice and exposure to the right environment. This complex interplay between innate predispositions and experiential learning shapes who we are as individuals, demonstrating that life outcomes are rarely determined by genes alone.