[Effect of stress-inducing factors on the behavior of monkeys. I. The behavior of monkeys under acute emotional stress]

Abstract

The behavior of Papio hamadryas pubertal males under the immobilizational stress conditions has been studied. It has been established that this very type of stress appeared to be a powerful irritant for the individuals of this species and age leading them into the depression state. The process of normalization of behavior after the 2-hour immobilization lasted for about 72 h. The main consequences of the stress were the violation of locomotion, the reception by individuals of unnatural postures, the trembling of limbs and the violation of coordination. The reaction of stress was greatly influenced by the position of individual in the hierarchic system. The dominant (alpha) and the most subdominant (z) males bore the stress easier. The intensification of food activity was marked within the male z. In certain period after the immobilization the tendency of the growth of friendly contacts between the individuals was found. The frequency of aggressive behavior after the stress lowered. The violation of manipulation activity was also marked. These regularities are of great importance for the reconstruction of group social behavior models of protohominid's societies.