Abstract: Behavioral development is discussed from several points of view in this review and the events incorporated into a broad concept of neuro-behavioral ontogeny. From the organization of innate reflex patterns of behavior in the embryo and neonate, and sequential ontogenetic phases in both structural and functional parameters of the CNS, there is evidence that similar phenomena of neuro-behavioral ontogeny are to be found in the three species considered here (mouse, cat and dog). Chronologically related, environmentally adaptive phases of reflex and behavioral development and structuro-functional changes in the CNS have been identified for these species. They show similar sequences in development of neural components which reach adult-like levels at the period of integration. Development is discussed in relation to stimulus dependent maturation and experimental manipulations which have demonstrated other critical periods which would be more appropriately termed experimentally 'sensitive' periods. In an attempt to synthesize many parameters of behavioral development on the basis of several theories from various disciplines, the multidisciplinary concept of neuro-behavioral ontogeny is presented. This concept regards the common sequences of neuro-ontogenetic changes in various non-precocial mammals as adaptive periods of behavioral development, the most dramatic and clearly defined period being the period of integration, which underlies the critical period of socialization.
Publication Year: 1966
Publication Date: 1966-07-01
Language: en
Type: review
Indexed In: ['crossref', 'pubmed']
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Cited By Count: 60
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