Imitation Behavior in AP Psychology

Definition

Imitation behavior refers to the act of copying or mimicking the actions, behaviors, or attitudes of others. It is when an individual observes and replicates the behavior they see in their peers.

Related terms

Modeling:

Modeling is when individuals learn through observing and imitating the behaviors, attitudes, or actions of others.

Vicarious Reinforcement: Vicarious reinforcement occurs when individuals are motivated to imitate a behavior after observing someone else being rewarded for that behavior.

Mirror Neurons:

Mirror neurons are brain cells that activate both when an individual performs an action and when they observe someone else performing the same action, playing a role in imitation behaviors.