ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses how temperament can be used to enhance the way in managing the behavior of captive primates. Temperament describes an individual's nature. It has been defined as the "stable behavioral and emotional reactions that appear early in life and influenced in part by genetic constitution". One reason for the current increased interest in temperament and personality is their role in various behavioral and/or health outcomes in humans and other species. Assessing primate temperament or personality in the home environment often involves observer ratings. Temperament in nonhuman primates is commonly assessed by evaluating the subject's response to some sort of purposeful environmental challenge or potentially threatening stimuli. Socialization, including pair or group housing, is a critical part of the behavioral management of captive primates. Nonsocial enrichment, including items such as toys and foraging devices, are among the most commonly used forms of enrichment.
