The fact that newborns will copy a simple facial expression of an adult in their visual field suggests that
A) classical and operant conditioning occur later in development.
B) the ability to imitate the behaviour of another is instinctual.
C) most of our cognitive abilities build upon our observations of others.
D) we are born without any innate knowledge.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ability to imitate the behavior of another is instinctual, as evidenced by newborns copying facial expressions. Classical and operant conditioning, as well as the development of cognitive abilities, occur later in development and rely on observation and experience. The evidence does not suggest that we are born without any innate knowledge.

The Fact That Newborns Will Copy a Simple Facial Expression