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Dominance assertion in male chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)
Author(s) -
Coe Christopher L.,
Levin Rachel N.
Publication year - 1980
Publication title -
aggressive behavior
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.223
H-Index - 92
eISSN - 1098-2337
pISSN - 0096-140X
DOI - 10.1002/1098-2337(1980)6:2<161::aid-ab2480060207>3.0.co;2-4
Subject(s) - aggression , dominance (genetics) , dominance hierarchy , troglodytes , psychology , developmental psychology , assertion , social hierarchy , social psychology , social relation , agonistic behaviour , ecology , biology , biochemistry , gene , computer science , programming language
The social relations of three adult males in a captive chimpanzee group were evaluated for 12 months. The observations encompassed a period of transition in the dominance hierarchy providing an opportunity to assess behavioral patterns involved in the initiation of status changes. This study shows that dominance in the chimpanzee is expressed primarily through ritualized and non‐contact behavior rather than by overt aggression. In particular, display behavior is important for indicating dominance rank, in communicating aggressive intent, and as a prelude to status struggles. The functional relationships between status, displays and other socio‐sexual behavior patterns are presented.