A large number of studies on language acquisition by nonhuman primates have been reported in recent years. These studies have supported and extended findings related to the acquisition of first languages by humans. The nonhuman studies are especially useful because they have allowed for a controlled investigation of those factors thought to affect language acquisition significantly. The findings have implications for our current scientific models of man and, in particular, for the symbolic interactionist position. A general review of the findings and their theoretical implications is provided.
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