What phenomenon occurs when instinctual behaviors override previously learned behaviors?

What phenomenon occurs when instinctual behaviors override previously learned behaviors?

• A. Fixed-action patterns
• B. Instinctual drift
• C. Observational learning
• D. Differential reinforcement

Answer: (B)

Instinctual drift occurs when instinctual behaviors, which are hardwired and biological in nature, take precedence over learned behaviors that have been reinforced through experience. This phenomenon highlights the limitations of learned behaviors when they conflict with innate tendencies. For example, an animal may learn to perform a specific task to receive a reward, such as navigating a maze for food. However, if the animal's instinctive behaviors—like foraging or mating behaviors—begin to take over, it may revert to these natural instincts, disregarding the learned task. This underscores the idea that while learning can shape behavior, these newly acquired skills can sometimes be overshadowed by instinctual drives that are more compelling and biologically rooted. Understanding instinctual drift provides insight into the interplay between nature and nurture in shaping behavior.

Instinctual drift occurs when instinctual behaviors, which are hardwired and biological in nature, take precedence over learned behaviors that have been reinforced through experience. This phenomenon highlights the limitations of learned behaviors when they conflict with innate tendencies. For example, an animal may learn to perform a specific task to receive a reward, such as navigating a maze for food. However, if the animal's instinctive behaviors—like foraging or mating behaviors—begin to take over, it may revert to these natural instincts, disregarding the learned task.

This underscores the idea that while learning can shape behavior, these newly acquired skills can sometimes be overshadowed by instinctual drives that are more compelling and biologically rooted. Understanding instinctual drift provides insight into the interplay between nature and nurture in shaping behavior.