Definition:
Adjunctive behavior refers to a type of behavior that emerges and occurs as a result of certain environmental factors or conditions. It is often observed when an organism is subjected to regular and predictable routines or timing of events, leading to the development of additional behaviors that serve as a diversion or outlet.
Subtypes of Adjunctive Behavior:
- Interference: This type of adjunctive behavior occurs when an organism engages in new and additional activities that interfere with its ongoing or primary behaviors. These additional behaviors can arise as a result of repetitive or monotonous routines.
- Compulsive Behavior: Adjunctive behavior may manifest as compulsive actions, characterized by repetitive, excessive, and purposeless movements or actions. These behaviors often arise when an organism is subjected to predictable or fixed time schedules.
- Habitual Behavior: Habitual adjunctive behavior involves the development of automatic and involuntary actions that an organism performs in response to regular environmental cues or triggers. These behaviors become ingrained as habits and tend to occur consistently in specific situations or contexts.
- Stereotypies: Stereotypies refer to repetitive and invariant behaviors that lack adaptive or functional value. They can be observed in lab animals or captive individuals, particularly when they are exposed to relatively unstimulating environments.