The influence of patterned-light deprivation on the critical period for imprinting.

Abstract

Newly-hatched Peking ducks were assigned to an experistimulation or to a control group with normal visual experience, and then were given imprinting trials (with normal vision permitted) when either 12, 24, 48, or 72 hr. old. Experimental Ss showed better imprinting than the controls when the trials occurred at 24 or 48 hr. of age. Both 12-hr. groups showed good imprinting; both 72-hr groups showed little. The possible role of emotionality as a factor in preventing imprinting is discussed. From Psyc Abstracts 36:01:3EC79M. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved)