Self-Awareness in Human and Chimpanzee Infants

What Is Measured and What Is Meant by the Mark and Mirror Test

Datos Bibliográficos

ID16782818
AutoresKim A Bard (0000-0002-7956-839X, University of Portsmouth, autor de correspondencia), Brenda K Todd (0000-0003-0098-5623, University of Sussex), Chris Bernier (University of Portsmouth), Jennifer Love, Jennifer A Love (0000-0003-2373-1036, Massachusetts Institute of Technology), David A Leavens (0000-0001-6538-4891, University of Sussex)
Año2006
Volumen9
Número2
Páginas191-219
Fecha de publicación2006-03-01
Peer ReviewedSí
Open AccessSí
TipoARTICLE
RevistaInfancy (JOURNAL)
Identificadores de la revistaISSN: 1525-0008 • E-ISSN: 1532-7078
EditorialWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1207/s15327078in0902_6
OpenAlexW2161515178
IdiomaEN
Citas recibidas22
Referencias citadas51

The objective study of self-recognition, with a mirror and a mark applied to the face, was conducted independently by Gallup (1970) for use with chimpanzees and monkeys, and by Amsterdam (1972) for use with infant humans. Comparative psychologists have followed the model (and assumptions) set by Gallup, whereas developmental psychologists have followed a different model (e.g., Lewis & Brooks-Gunn, 1979). This article explores the assumptions in the definitions and methods of self-recognition assessments in the 30 years since these initial studies, and charts the divergence between the developmental mark test and the comparative mark test. Two new studies, 1 with infant chimpanzees and 1 with infant humans, illustrate a reconciliation of the 2 approaches. Overt application of the mark, or other procedures related to how the mark is discovered, did not enhance mirror self-recognition. In contrast, maternal scaffolding appears to enhance performance, perhaps by eliciting well-rehearsed verbal responses (i.e., naming self). When comparable testing procedures and assessment criteria are used, chimpanzee and human infants perform comparably. A combined developmental comparative approach allows us to suggest that mirror self-recognition may be based on a specific aspect of mental representation, the cognitive ability to symbolize

Cognition · Cognitive psychology · Cognitive science · Developmental psychology · Theory of mind · Child and Animal Learning Development · Cultural Differences and Values · Face Recognition and Perception · Psychology