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behavioral ecology

the study of the interaction between the environment and the behavior of organisms within that environment. Behavioral ecology is primarily concerned with adaptive aspects of nonhuman animal behavior, especially within a natural environment. Research formerly focused on the acquisition and use of resources, but more recent research has also studied the adaptive significance of social interactions, blending behavioral ecology with sociobiology.

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Psychology term of the day

November 18th 2024

contrast polarity

contrast polarity

the degree of contrast between two visual elements, particularly figure and background. Contrast can be positive (light objects against dark backgrounds, e.g., a white letter printed upon black paper) or negative (dark objects against light backgrounds, e.g., a black letter printed upon white paper).