Bonobo Society and Power Dynamics

In bonobo society, power is shared between males and females, with alpha females playing a significant leadership role. These females form strong bonds with their offspring, especially sons, who benefit from their mothers' status. Young female bonobos must leave their troop, while sons remain and gain privilege through their mothers. Bonobo mothers rarely discipline their young, even when they misbehave.

What is unique about the power structure in bonobo society?

• Only males hold power.

• Power is shared between males and females.

• Only the alpha male holds power.

• Females have no power.

What is the role of the alpha female in bonobo society?

• She only cares for the young.

• She is a subordinate to males.

• She is one of the group's leaders.

• She has no role in leadership.

What happens to young female bonobos as they grow up?

• They are disciplined by their mothers.

• They become leaders of their troop.

• They stay with their original troop.

• They leave to join another troop.

How do bonobo mothers treat their young?

• They ignore them.

• They rarely discipline them.

• They often discipline them.

• They are very strict.

Which bonobo males become the most privileged?

• Those with the strongest fathers.

• Those who leave the troop.

• Those who are disciplined often.

• Those with the most powerful mothers.