Exploration and Social Play in Squirrel Monkeys (Saimiri)

Squirrel monkeys (Saimiri) have been studied in a variety oflaboratory and natural environments. The frequency and formof exploration and social play vary considerably among differentenvironments. For example, in some environments, young monkeyshave been observed to play for 3 hr per day; but in one naturalenvironment, not a single bout of social play was seen duringa 10-week intensive study. Numerous intermediate levels of playactivity have been observed. Whereas many theories of play make it appear that play is essentialfor the development of sexual behavior, integrated roles introop structure, control of aggressive responses, social cohesion,etc., the data on squirrel monkeys indicate that social organizationand many normal social behaviors can develop without socialplay. However, the opportunity to play socially provides learningexperiences that increase the variety of each animal's behavioralrepertoire and the subtly of social cues to which it can respond.An adaptive modicum of competence can appear without socialplay, but the opportunity to play socially develops the competenceof animals beyond that modicum.