Dr. Lipbatwapmore was looking at the development of nursing behavior in rats. The Dr. found that the offspring of pregnant rats who were more active, by moving and grooming themselves more frequently than other rats, were more likely to begin nursing earlier in comparison to other rats. Given what we discussed about development in the class, what is likely a possible reason for this difference?
The sensory input provided by the mother's movements facilitates the development of motor patterns used during nursing.
The activity of the pregnant mother causes the offspring to become fatigued and therefore more motivated to eat after birth.
The sensory input from the mother before birth plays a role in shaping the attachment relationship individuals have after birth.
The activity of the mother is largely inconsequential as her offspring will inherit genetic programs from active mothers that allow them to be better at nursing in contrast to other mothers.