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The effect of early protein-calorie malnutrition on the development of social behavior was studied during the first weeks of postnatal life. Activity and social interaction were recorded in groups of young rats either in the rearing cage or in a novel environment. The malnourished group had a delayed development of social behavior and smaller number of social contacts in all tests. During the suckling period, the nutritionally deprived pups were also more dependent on the mother, showed no social grooming, but were more aggressive. On the 49th day, the normal rats showed increased exploration of the social stimulus whereas the malnourished rats were markedly inhibited. Apparently, early nutritional deficiency altered the social structure of the litter and of all individuals from the beginning by disturbing behavior and interactions of all members of the "family."

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