Which statement best describes mice compared with rats regarding novel objects?

• A. Mice fear new objects more than rats
• B. Mice and rats fear novel objects equally
• C. Mice do not fear new objects as much as rats
• D. Mice avoid new objects completely

Answer: (C)

The main idea is how rodents react to something new in their environment, known as neophobia. When a novel object is introduced, mice generally show less hesitation and explore sooner and longer than rats. This means they don’t fear new items as much, which is why the statement that mice do not fear new objects as much as rats best fits the typical behavioral pattern. In contrast, rats tend to be more cautious around unfamiliar stimuli, showing longer hesitation or reduced exploration. The other options imply equal fear, complete avoidance, or greater fear in mice, none of which align with the common observation that mice are more willing to engage with novelty than rats.