Virgin female rats typically ignore unfamiliar rat pups, yet they engage in a rich repertoire of maternal behaviors when their own pups are born. Which theory of motivation explains this behavior?
A) Arousal
B) Instinct
C) Drive reduction
D) Incentive

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The instinct theory of motivation suggests that behaviors are innate and automatic, and therefore the virgin female rats are not exhibiting maternal behaviors towards unfamiliar pups because they are not their own offspring. However, when their own pups are born they engage in the rich repertoire of maternal behaviors, showing that these behaviors are instinctual and innate.

Virgin Female Rats Typically Ignore Unfamiliar Rat Pups, Yet They