Animal Behavior and Learning: Support from Applied Behavior Analysis

Susan G Friedman; Cynthia E Stringfield; Marion R Desmarchelier

doi:10.1016/j.cvex.2020.08.002

Animal Behavior and Learning: Support from Applied Behavior Analysis

Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract. 2021 Jan;24(1):1-16. doi: 10.1016/j.cvex.2020.08.002.

Authors

Susan G Friedman¹, Cynthia E Stringfield², Marion R Desmarchelier³

Affiliations

¹ Psychology, Utah State University, Behavior Works, LLC, Logan, UT, USA. Electronic address: sg.friedman@usu.edu.
² ZooTampa, 1101 West Sligh Avenue, Tampa, FL 33604, USA.
³ Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec J2S 2M2, Canada.

PMID: 33189245
DOI: 10.1016/j.cvex.2020.08.002

Abstract

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a relevant field for veterinarians helping clients whose animals engage in problem behaviors. In ABA, learning is defined as behavior change due to changes in the environment. Changing behavior then requires changes in conditions. Understanding the importance of control and the difference between emotional behavior and emotional feelings also is informed by ABA. Every behavior intervention should start with a systematic, analytical process called a functional assessment. Behavior change strategies are described, including an ethical procedural hierarchy based on the least intrusive, effective behavior change solution.

Keywords: Animal; Applied; Behavior; Behavior analysis; Ethical; Learning; Problem behavior.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Animals
Applied Behavior Analysis / methods*
Behavior Control / methods*
Behavior, Animal*
Humans
Learning*