Generalized imitation is demonstrated when a learner imitates the model's behavior regardless of the specific behavior modeled without direct training.

• A. Generalized imitation
• B. Imitation
• C. Observational learning
• D. Modeling

Answer: (A)

Generalized imitation describes the ability to imitate a wide range of actions demonstrated by others, not just a single, specific behavior, and without needing direct training on each new behavior. The statement reflects that flexible imitative repertoire: the learner copies the model’s actions across various demonstrations regardless of which behavior is shown, and without explicit teaching for each new behavior.

This differs from plain imitation, which tends to be limited to copying a particular modeled action. Observational learning is broader, involving learning from watching others—including understanding consequences—not just replicating actions. Modeling is the act of showing a behavior for others to imitate, serving as the demonstration rather than the learner’s generalized ability to imitate any modeled action.