>>13881633it's annoying
signal detection theory would premise that signals evolve because the intended receiver has an innate preference. this is why housecats make babyish noises, but in the wild they might mimic bird noises instead.
attention seeking behavior is manipulating innate receiver preferences to garner attention from the receiver. this might spring from courtship ritual but it can also (such as in a parent-child relationship) involve manipulating the receiver into a response suited for the protection and care for very young children, like when a kid is acting immature and trying to get attention. attention/affection is a resource like any other and if you learn to manipulate signals to get attention you can probably use that same behavior to take advantage of social situations as an adult, and to improve your chances of being noticed by a potential mate.
