Question

some researchers have suggested that the only way to be sure that you are observing imitation is if the actions or sounds being copied are so bizarre that there is no plausible explanation for why they might occur. what are some other ways researchers can tell when an animal is truly imitating

Answer 1

Researchers can discern true animal imitation by studying mirror neurons, observing animal learning behaviors in natural settings, and comparing changes in behavior to establish if actions are learned or instinctual.

Step-by-step explanation:

Researchers can tell when an animal is truly imitating through various methods aside from observing rare or bizarre behaviors.

• One method is the study of mirror neurons, specialized brain cells that enable mimicry and help to recognize and reproduce observed actions. Observational learning is a documented form of learning where animals and humans learn by watching and copying actions of others, such as young wolves learning from older wolves, monkeys washing food, or chimps learning how to drink juice more efficiently.
• Additionally, naturalistic observation allows researchers to study animals in their environment and can reveal whether behaviors are learned or innate by comparing changes in behavior or looking into the neurological basis of learning.