Question

In the Meltzoff and Moore (1977) study (experiment one) of infant imitation, the researchers

A) Demonstrated that infants can imitate facial expressions
B) Found no evidence of infant imitation
C) Only observed vocal imitations in infants
D) Showed that infants can imitate gross motor movements

Answer 1

The Meltzoff and Moore (1977) study demonstrated that infants can imitate facial expressions, highlighting the innate ability for imitation which is critical for early development.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the Meltzoff and Moore (1977) study, known for its importance in developmental psychology, the researchers demonstrated that infants can imitate facial expressions. This experiment was foundational in illustrating that even very young infants are capable of imitation, a fundamental aspect of early learning and social interaction. Imitation is a behavioral characteristic that provides a basis for more advanced motor functions and communication skills. Not only can newborns distinguish and display preference for synchronized face and voice movement, but they are also inherently inclined to mimic observed behavior, which plays a critical role in their cognitive and social development.