Developmental Aspects of Kin Bias in Behavior

Abstract

Abstract Immatures in many nonhuman primate species both show varying degrees of kin bias in their social interaction with other members of their group and may be subject to the effects of kin bias on the part of group members from an early age. Although recent studies raise the possibility of a role for phenotypic matching in kin bias, current perspectives view preferences for kin among young primates primarily as outcomes of early association with the mother and her close associates (who tend to be kin) and with similarlyaged peers (chapter 13). However, this is usually where the discussion of the development of kin preference ends. Relatively little research has focused on the processes and precise mechanisms by which early associations translate into preferences for kin. Nor do we understand the processes by which preferences for kin remain stable or change over the course of development. In many cases, early kin-based preferences endure until adulthood and appear to form the basis for long-term affiliation and exchange of benefits. In other cases, the effects are more temporary, and hence potentially provide only shorter term benefits.