What is the difference between imitation and identification?

What is the difference between imitation and identification?

• A. Imitation Involves Copying Behaviour
• B. Identification Involves Associating With A Role Model And Wanting To Be Like Them
• C. They Are The Same Process
• D. Imitation Cannot Involve Reward

Answer: (B)

The key idea is motivation and internalization. Imitation is simply copying an observed action, often happening without any commitment to the model beyond the immediate behavior. Identification, on the other hand, involves forming a connection with a role model and wanting to be like them, which means adopting their attitudes, values and goals and applying them across situations. For example, a child might copy a coach’s drill (imitation), but if they identify with the coach, they’re more likely to adopt the coach’s broader traits—discipline, work ethic, even how they present themselves—so the influence lasts beyond a single action. The option that describes identification as associating with a role model and wanting to be like them best captures this deeper, aspirational connection. While imitation does involve copying behavior, it doesn’t require that aspirational identification, and the two are distinct processes. Rewards can influence imitation, so saying imitation cannot involve reward isn’t accurate.

The key idea is motivation and internalization. Imitation is simply copying an observed action, often happening without any commitment to the model beyond the immediate behavior. Identification, on the other hand, involves forming a connection with a role model and wanting to be like them, which means adopting their attitudes, values and goals and applying them across situations. For example, a child might copy a coach’s drill (imitation), but if they identify with the coach, they’re more likely to adopt the coach’s broader traits—discipline, work ethic, even how they present themselves—so the influence lasts beyond a single action. The option that describes identification as associating with a role model and wanting to be like them best captures this deeper, aspirational connection. While imitation does involve copying behavior, it doesn’t require that aspirational identification, and the two are distinct processes. Rewards can influence imitation, so saying imitation cannot involve reward isn’t accurate.