Instinctive

Instinctive is a term used to describe a behavior that is innate, automatic, or unlearned. It is often used in the context of animal behavior, but can also apply to certain human behaviors. Instinctive behaviors are typically performed in response to specific stimuli and are not influenced by previous experiences or learning.

Definition

The term "instinctive" comes from the Latin word "instinctus", which means "impulse" or "instigation". In the context of psychology and ethology (the study of animal behavior), an instinctive behavior is one that is performed without being based on prior experience or learning. These behaviors are thought to be programmed by the genes of an organism and are often essential for survival.

Examples

Examples of instinctive behaviors in animals include the fight-or-flight response, mating behaviors, and the urge to care for offspring. In humans, examples of instinctive behaviors include the startle response, the sucking reflex in infants, and certain emotional reactions.

Instinctive vs. Learned Behavior

While instinctive behaviors are automatic and unlearned, learned behaviors are acquired and modified over time through experience. Learned behaviors can be shaped by positive or negative reinforcement, while instinctive behaviors are not influenced by reinforcement.

See Also

• Ethology
• Psychology
• Behavior
• Genetics

References

Instinctive Resources
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