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The primary focus of ethology in psychology is on animal behavior observed in natural environments. Ethology emphasizes the study of behaviors in the context of their evolutionary significance and adaptive functions. Ethologists examine how these behaviors contribute to survival and reproduction, often utilizing observational techniques to gather data in the wild rather than in controlled laboratory settings.

This viewpoint contrasts with other areas of psychology that might focus solely on human development stages, cognitive processes, or social interactions. For example, while human development examines the changes individuals undergo throughout their lifespan, and cognitive psychology delves into the mental processes involved in learning, ethology specifically centers on innate behaviors and their evolutionary implications in both humans and animals. By understanding behavior within the broader context of survival and adaptation, ethology provides valuable insights into the instinctual drives that govern actions in various species.