Chimpanzees Exhibit Positive Social Contagion Through Grooming and Play

A fascinating study from Durham University has uncovered new insights into social contagion in chimpanzees, revealing that these remarkable primates can adopt positive behaviors that enhance their social connections and foster group cohesion.

Conducted at the Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage in Zambia, researchers concentrated on two key affiliative behaviors: grooming and play.

Their findings suggest that these behaviors not only establish bonds but also ripple through the community, promoting a collective sense of unity.

Social Contagion in Chimpanzees

This investigation, recently published in the journal PLOS ONE, expands the concept of social contagion—commonly associated with negative or neutral behaviors—to include the positive interactions that can flourish within chimpanzee groups.

Much like humans, chimpanzees display a remarkable awareness of social dynamics, allowing their actions to be shaped by the behaviors of their peers.

The researchers observed a clear trend: people were more likely to engage in grooming or play after witnessing another chimp engaging in the same activity.

Interestingly, grooming was particularly common among close companions, mirroring patterns of empathy, while play behavior surged among younger chimps who rely heavily on play for their social interactions.

The Importance of Behavioral Contagion

These findings underscore the vital role of behavioral contagion in shaping interconnections among social animals, reinforcing harmony and cooperation within their communities.

The research sparks intriguing questions about the evolutionary roots of empathy and social dynamics in humans.

As the lead researcher notes, examining these fundamental social behaviors in chimpanzees may illuminate our understanding of healthy social functioning in our closest relatives.

Implications for Broader Social Structures

Moreover, this study invites further exploration of how such positive emotional contagion may extend beyond chimpanzees, offering insights into social structures across various species and how these behaviors contribute to group living and social stability.

With over 200 hours dedicated to observing 41 chimps, the study adhered to rigorous ethical standards and employed a non-invasive approach.

This deep dive into the social lives of primates not only highlights their adaptability but also enriches the discourse on animal behavior, empathy, and the intricacies of social bonding.

Study Details:

• Title: ChimpanSEE, ChimpanDO: Grooming and play contagion in chimpanzees
• Authors: Georgia Sandars et al.
• Journal: PLOS ONE
• Publication Date: November 20, 2024
• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0312467