ISSN:
1432-1106
Keywords:
Social signals
;
Radio brain stimulation
;
Primate communication Sequential behavior
;
Squirrel monkey
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Summary Social signals of squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus) were elicited by remote-controlled brain stimulation. The method employed permits a study of signal-response interdependencies in varying social situations which can be chosen at the experimenter's will. The function of a signal and thereby its information content are largely determined by the response of the recipients. The analysis of signal function was attempted under five conditions of social interactions: (1) reactions of group members to attack behavior of the stimulated animal, (2) reactions to dominance gestures of the stimulated animal, (3) reactions to signals that are indiscernible to the human observer, (4) reactions that are unusual or abnormal, and (5) reactions to signals sent over greater or lesser distances. Several aspects of the signal proved to be decisive for the prediction of behavior: (1) the signal intensity, (2) the space between animals, and (3) the context. The control of these variables by means of radio stimulation permits further quantitative studies of signal characteristics and their effects on the modification of social behavior.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00234314
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