Resocialization of asocial chimpanzees (1986)

Fritz, J.

Abstract

Successful resocialization techniques of asocial (insufficient opportunities have prevented the subject from acquiring the social experience necessary for compatible group living) chimpanzees and their practical implications are discussed. The problem of lack of opportunity for social learning is confounded by the behavioral repertoire that they learn during isolation. They learn to cling to themselves, to self-suck, and to provide their own motor feedback, which develops into stereotypic activity. These stereotypic behaviors initially take precedence over social learning, and they prove to be exceedingly resistance to change.