Imprinting Is a Common Phenomenon in Ducks and Geese

question 24

Multiple Choice

Imprinting is a common phenomenon in ducks and geese. Assume that a baby duck sees a small dog during a critical period after hatching and thinks it is its mother. The duck follows the dog everywhere. What, if anything, could be done to help the duck recognize its real mother instead of the dog?

• A)The dog should be left inside the farmhouse, and the duckling should be placed with an adult duck so it will start following the duck around.
• B)The dog should be left inside the farmhouse, and the duckling should be placed with other ducklings so it can learn normal duckling behavior.
• C)The duckling should be shown an adult duck so it will follow something that looks just like the duckling.
• D)Nothing can be done because the duckling has already imprinted on the dog.

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Definitions:

Ego-ideal

A component of the psyche that represents an individual's standards of perfection and aspirations.

Reality Principle

A psychoanalytic concept where the ego seeks to satisfy the id’s desires in realistic and socially appropriate ways.

Primary-process Thought

A mode of thinking primarily in the unconscious mind involving the fulfillment of wishes and desires, often irrational and without logical coherence.

Secondary-process Thought

describes the rational, conscious thought processes rooted in logic, reality, and practicality, as distinguished from primary-process thought which is more about instinctual needs and desires.