imitative behavior in dogs?

Angelique

n general, this is known as Social Learning, pioneered by Albert Bandura's research into modeling and observational learning in humans. Good start, but I think he only scratched the tip of a very large iceberg. A great addition to Operant Conditioning and Classical Conditioning!

Social Learning is being studied quite heavily these days, especially in dogs as they seem to excell in this area.

I think that it is interesting to note that the reason for the existence of Social Learning in Animals (including humans) is that it is believed that the patterns of behaviour  were too complex for an animal to learn operantly and have any chance of living.

It is a similar reason for the existence of drive theory.

*** Putting foot firmly in Mouth***

I see no reason as to why operant, classical, FAPS / drive cannot exist all at the same time. Abrantes has this view so it is hardly unique.

But i am not sure that many Social Learning paradigms could not be explained with a slightly different model. It is an area that we really need to research.

poodleOwned

 http://www.vetsci.usyd.edu.au/research/animal_behaviour/index.shtml#projects

That's my PhD supervisor. I start at the end of March... exciting!

Sorry, OT.
 

corvus

poodleOwned

 http://www.vetsci.usyd.edu.au/research/animal_behaviour/index.shtml#projects

 

That's my PhD supervisor. I start at the end of March... exciting!

Sorry, OT.

You lucky lucky person... and must be clever too!!  Sorry OT again...

Oh yes. I agree that OC, CC, and SL are happening all at the same time. So, you kinda have to think in 3D. Not too hard once you get the hang of it. I use Social Learning as my primary approach, while always mindful of Classical Conditioning, and finally Operant Conditioning...which is probably the opposite approach than the way others might use it. But I'm also more interested in social skills over technical skills within the dog and human relationship.

Social Learning is mostly about gaining information through another's experience or knowledge in order to save energy, find food, water, or shelter, and avoid danger. Social Learning can also involve a direct communication exchange through a common language or one of the five senses. SL helps social animals organize in order to work together in relative harmony, and stay safe. IMO.

We discussed this here (or at least tried to) a few years back.

Angelique

We discussed this here (or at least tried to) a few years back.

It is always worth another try. I must admit that my thoughts in this area are hardly complete but if you start the thread i will join in :)

 I'm going to attempt to demonstrate this experimentally over the next few weeks/months, if I can find some relevant references in (behavioral) research). I'll let you all know what I get.