What is the Difference Between Innate and Learned Behaviour?

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The main difference between innate and learned behavior lies in the origin of these behaviors.

Innate behavior:

  • Occurs instinctively, without the need for conscious thought or learning.
  • Comes from an animal's heredity, and instincts are examples of innate behavior.
  • Is triggered by specific stimuli and is hereditary.
  • Examples include reflexes, taxis, and kinesis.

Learned behavior:

  • Acquired through experience, practice, or conditioning.
  • Demonstrated by observing other animals or through life experiences.
  • Depends on environmental context and can change or disappear over time.
  • Examples include habituation, classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and insight learning.

In summary, innate behaviors are instinctive and inherited from parents, while learned behaviors are acquired through experience and depend on environmental context.

Comparative Table: Innate vs Learned Behaviour

Here is a table comparing the differences between innate and learned behaviors:

Aspect Innate Behaviors Learned Behaviors
Definition Instinctive behaviors, present from birth, and genetically determined. Acquired from experience or learning from others, can be altered or changed.
Examples Eating when hungry, coughing, and pulling back from a hot object. Speaking a language, tying a shoe, and riding a bike.
Inheritance Inherent behaviors that come from birth. Acquired voluntarily or involuntarily as a result of experience.
Ability to Alter Cannot be altered, as they are inherent and genetically related. Can be altered or changed since they happen with experience and acquisition.
Significance Contribute to the survival and proper functioning of the organism. Allow an individual organism to adapt to changes in the environment.

In summary, innate behaviors are instinctive and present from birth, while learned behaviors are acquired through experience or learning from others. Innate behaviors cannot be altered, whereas learned behaviors can be changed or adapted based on the organism's experiences.