Imprinting (Noun)
Meaning
A learning process in early life whereby species specific patterns of behavior are established.
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- The goslings followed the first moving object they saw, a classic example of imprinting in young animals.
- Imprinting plays a crucial role in the development of social behavior in many species, including mammals and birds.
- In the wild, ducklings imprint on their mother's calls and movements, allowing them to stay together and avoid predators.
- The process of imprinting is highly susceptible to disruption by environmental factors, such as habitat destruction and fragmentation.
- Studies have shown that imprinting in young animals can be influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.