Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of social factors on pup-directed activities by Long-Evans hooded rats. Maternal responsiveness was measured by placing virgin and lactating animals or pairs of lactating rats in an open field. The animals were separated from 6- to 9-day-old pups by a barrier of plastic screening. Virgin-lactator pairings produced a high incidence of aggression whereas pairs of maternal animals co-operated in removal of the obstacle and pup care. The study suggests that the rat's maternal behavior can be modified by social facilitation
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