Overimitation begins in infancy but is not yet linked to in-group preference
Humans are by nature social creatures, far more so than other primates.
Humans are by nature social creatures, far more so than other primates. Our desire to be accepted by our in-groups is universal and innate.
It also comes early: multiple studies have demonstrated how preschool-age imitation of adult behaviour leads to acquiring new skills, sharing cultural knowledge and fostering a sense of affiliation. One form of this behaviour is overimitation -- the tendency to copy actions that are not necessary to achieve a goal.
First reported by ScienceDaily: Relationships.
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