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Subject: Imprinting
Content: Imprinting is a rapid learning process that enables the very young to recognize and bond with its caretaker.  This allows newborns to recognize one or both parents.  In some cases, it helps young recognize a parental substitute as well.  The young will see its caretaker as an individual.  A period of time when imprinting occurs is called a sensitive period.  Animals exposed to contact with humans during the sensitive period will usually adapt well to life with humans.  Animals with no contact with humans will not adapt well later in life with humans therefore make poor pets.  Recognition of individuals is a complex process that animals use to distinguish their place in a social context.