Question

observational learning is beneficial because it allows the animal to learn a new behavior without receiving ______, and it increases the animal's fitness because ______

Answer 1

Observational learning spares animals from negative experiences and improves their ability to survive and reproduce, thus enhancing their fitness and contributing to evolution by natural selection.

Step-by-step explanation:

Observational learning is beneficial because it allows the animal to learn a new behavior without receiving negative punishment or negative reinforcement, and it increases the animal's fitness because behaviors that enhance survival or reproduction get passed on, leading to natural selection.

For instance, young animals, like wolves, learn vital survival skills by observing and imitating the behaviors of experienced pack members. Similarly, young primates may learn to wash their food by copying others, a behavior that could lead to better health and increased longevity, thus contributing to their evolution by natural selection.

All these learned behaviors help animals obtain food, ensure the survival of their offspring, evade predators, and find mates, all of which directly contribute to an animal's fitness. Through the process of observational learning, an animal can efficiently adapt to its environment and potentially enhance its chances of passing on genes to the succeeding generation.