Behavior of Dominance

One of interesting aspect of social behavior among some primates is the evolution of a pattern of behavior called dominance.

Many primate groups are arranged in a hierarchy similar to the “pecking order” of chickens.

In such a group there are strong divisions between dominance males of the group - usually the older, larger, and stronger ones and other members including in descending order, younger and less dominant males, adult females, younger juveniles of both sexes, and infants.

This strict hierarchy of dominance serves a double purpose: It aids on the defense of the group by allowing the strongest males to present a united front against attackers, and it keeps the younger members from straying too far from the protection of the dominant members of the group.

Patterns of dominance are maintained through submission behavior that allows one animal to reaffirm its dominance over another.

A subordinate baboon will “present itself” to a dominant one by going up to it and turning its back in a submissive, nonthreatening posture.

If it did not behave in this way, the dominant animals might take its approach as a challenge to its authority and try to repel it.

Since the dominant hierarchy of a group is constantly changing, such challenges are part of everyday life, especially among the youngest members.
Behavior of Dominance