Mechanisms of Learning & Behavior Flashcards
The encephalization quotient, or EQ, is a popular method for expressing the intelligence of one species vs. another. What does the EQ refer to?
The brain size relative to the expected brain size based on body size. Brain size over and above what’s needed to control the size of the body is considered to indicate increased intelligence.
True or false:
The walking reflex requires continuous input from the cerebral cortex of the forebrain.
False. Simple behaviors are created by pattern generators in the spinal column or lower areas of the brain.
True or false: Grooming is considered a complex behavior, facilitated by social interaction, memory and stability.
False. The actual behavior of grooming is considered a reflex. WHO to groom, however, is definitely complex and not a reflex.
Rhythm is best associated with?
Daily activity.
Reflex is best associated with?
Orienting.
FAP (Fixed Action Patterns) are best associated with?
Quiet biting attack.
Complex learning is best associated with?
Object permanence.
Which species is smarter, dogs or cats?
Dogs. EQ is our best measure of intelligence, despite its faults. And the canine EQ exceeds the feline EQ.
Imagine that you are playing with your cat on the couch, wrestling, when she suddenly turns and bites your harder than you would like. Do you think you may have hit a trigger zone around her face, inadvertently causing her to bite?
Not likely - a FAP is a sequence of events, starting with the stalking of prey. We’ll need to look elsewhere for the cause of the bite. This is an issue we’ll need to address through training - to the human and the cat!
Which animal has the higher EQ, an orb weaving spider or a jumping spider?
Jumping spider. . In fact, it has one of the highest EQ among all invertebrates. Probably because they are active hunters and utilize complex movements involving tremendous leaps.
