Role of Imitation

Definition

The role of imitation refers to how children learn and acquire language by observing and copying the behaviors, gestures, and speech patterns of those around them.

Related terms

Social Learning Theory:

This theory suggests that children acquire language through observation, imitation, and reinforcement from their social environment.

Mirror Neurons:

These are specialized brain cells that fire when we perform an action or observe someone else performing the same action. They play a crucial role in imitation and learning.

Language Acquisition Device (LAD):

Proposed by Noam Chomsky, the LAD is an innate mechanism or mental structure that enables children to quickly and effortlessly acquire language skills through exposure to linguistic input.