Differentiate Innate And Learned Behaviour As Originating From Unconditioned And Conditioned Reflexes
Behaviour can originate from two fundamental bases: innate behaviour, which is inborn and automatic, and learned behaviour, which develops through experience. These correspond closely to unconditioned reflexes and conditioned reflexes respectively.
Innate vs Learned Behaviour -
1. Innate Behaviour
- Origin: Based on unconditioned reflexes – inborn, automatic responses to specific stimuli.
- Characteristics:
– Present from birth
– Species-specific and genetically programmed
– Does not require learning or experience
– Usually adaptive for survival - Examples:
– Birds building nests
– Sucking reflex in newborns
– Withdrawal from pain
2. Learned Behaviour
- Origin: Based on conditioned reflexes – acquired through experience, training, or association.
- Characteristics:
– Develops after birth through interaction with the environment
– Flexible and adaptable to changing situations
– Can be modified or improved with practice - Examples:
– Dog salivating at the sound of a bell (Pavlovian conditioning)
– Primates using tools to obtain food
– Birds learning to avoid traps