Question

Biologically determined, inborn patterns of behavior are known as ________________.

Short answer

Instincts

Step-by-step solution

Recall the Term

Recall common terminology used in psychology relating to inborn, biologically determined patterns of behavior. The term that describes this is 'instincts'.

Key concepts

Biologically Determined Behavior

When discussing biologically determined behavior, we delve into actions and reactions that are deeply embedded within an organism's genetic makeup. These are responses that typically do not require prior learning or experience to manifest; instead, they are hardwired into the biology of the species. In humans, such behaviors may include reflex actions like blinking or suckling in infants.

Consider the fact that certain behaviors are universal across members of a species and are exhibited by nearly all individuals, regardless of variations in their environment or upbringing. This universality underlines the concept of behaviors that are determined biologically. An example in the animal kingdom could be the migration patterns of birds or the spawning instinct in salmon, which is driven by biological imperatives programmed over generations of evolution.

Understanding these inherent behaviors helps researchers in the field of psychology to dissect the nature versus nurture debate — discerning what aspects of behavior are inherited and which are influenced by the environment.

Inborn Patterns of Behavior

Inborn patterns of behavior, often synonymous with instincts, are fascinating to observe as they showcase a pre-programmed set of actions that an organism carries out in specific situations. These behaviors are considered inborn because they are present from birth and tend to occur in a consistent manner among all members of the species. For instance, a newborn baby's grasp reflex, where the infant will automatically close their hand around a finger, is an inborn pattern of behavior.

In psychology, these patterns of behavior are crucial when analyzing how creatures adapt and survive in their environments without the need for learning. Certain birds constructing nests and the protective maternal behaviors exhibited by many mammals are a part of these inborn patterns that ensure survival and propagation of the species. They are key to understanding an animal's lifecycle as well as its interaction with its ecosystem.

Psychology Terminology

Delving into psychology terminology helps us communicate complex concepts succinctly and accurately. In the realm of psychology, terminology serves as the lexicon through which behaviors, mental processes, and emotional states are classified and understood.

When we use specific terms such as 'instincts', as in this exercise, we're referencing a well-established concept in psychology that connotes an inherent, naturally occurring phenomenon of behavior. Instincts are a prime example of psychology terminology that encapsulates a broad idea — in this case, inborn behaviors — in a single word. Grasping the varied vocabulary of psychology is fundamental not just for academic purposes, but also for professionals within the field and individuals seeking to better understand psychological principles and their manifestations in everyday life.

Students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with key terminology, as doing so will significantly enhance their comprehension of psychological concepts and facilitate deeper engagement with the subject matter.