What is a learned behavior?

A learned behavior is an action or skill a living thing develops after birth through experience, practice, or observation, rather than being born with it. Because it is learned, it can change or improve over time. Examples include a dog learning to sit and a child learning to ride a bike.

What are examples of learned behaviors?

Examples of learned behaviors include a lion cub learning to hunt, a dog learning tricks, a parrot mimicking speech, and a bear learning where to find trash. In humans, learned behaviors include reading, riding a bike, tying shoes, and speaking a language.

What are the types of learned behaviors?

The main types are habituation (getting used to something and no longer reacting), imprinting (a young animal bonding to its parent), conditioning or trial and error (learning from consequences), and observational learning (learning by watching others).

Is a learned behavior the same as an instinct?

No. An instinct is a behavior an animal is born knowing how to do, like a spider spinning a web. A learned behavior develops after birth through experience or practice. The quick test is whether the animal had to learn it or could do it from birth.