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Positive evidence for neonatal imitation: A general response, adaptive engagement.

ABSTRACT: The study employed four gestural models using frame-by-frame microanalytic methods, and followed how the behaviours unfolded over time. Forty-two human newborns (0-3 days) were examined for their imitation of tongue protrusion, 'head tilt with looking up', three-finger and two-finger gestures. The results showed that all three gesture groups were imitated. Results of the temporal analyses revealed an early and a later, second stage of responses. Later responses were characterized by a suppression of similar, but non-matching movements. Perinatal imitation is not a phenomenon served by a single underlying mechanism; it has at least two different stages. An early phase is followed by voluntary matching behaviour by the neonatal infant.

SUBMITTER: Nagy E

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7277498 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Positive evidence for neonatal imitation: A general response, adaptive engagement.

Nagy Emese E Pilling Karen K Blake Victoria V Orvos Hajnalka H

Developmental science 20191001 2

The study employed four gestural models using frame-by-frame microanalytic methods, and followed how the behaviours unfolded over time. Forty-two human newborns (0-3 days) were examined for their imitation of tongue protrusion, 'head tilt with looking up', three-finger and two-finger gestures. The results showed that all three gesture groups were imitated. Results of the temporal analyses revealed an early and a later, second stage of responses. Later responses were characterized by a suppressio ...[more]

PMID: 31408564

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