Animal studies help clarify misunderstandings about neonatal imitation. (13th December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Simpson, Elizabeth A.; Maylott, Sarah E.; Heimann, Mikael; Subiaul, Francys; Paukner, Annika; Suomi, Stephen J.; Ferrari, Pier F.
• Is Part Of: Behavioral and brain sciences. Volume 40(2017)
• Publication Date: 2017-12-13
• Subjects: Psychophysiology -- Periodicals; Psychology -- Periodicals; Human behavior -- Periodicals; Animal behavior -- Periodicals; Brain -- Periodicals; 616.89142
• DOI: 10.1017/S0140525X16001965
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0140-525X

Abstract

Abstract: Empirical studies are incompatible with the proposal that neonatal imitation is arousal driven or declining with age. Nonhuman primate studies reveal a functioning brain mirror system from birth, developmental continuity in imitation and later sociability, and the malleability of neonatal imitation, shaped by the early environment. A narrow focus on arousal effects and reflexes may grossly underestimate neonatal capacities.