Defining behaviour problems
In the research world, there are various models used to define and diagnose behaviour problems in pets. These models are developed from different perspectives from which animal behaviour is analysed. There are three main areas: a biological, medical, or ethological standpoint.
The method I primarily use to diagnose behaviour problems in pets is one taught at Lincoln University. This approach is centred on identifying the underlying emotional-motivational system that drives a particular behaviour. Every emotion, be it fear or joy, serves as a signal about our needs. And emotions, both in humans and animals, are crucial for navigating the world around us. For instance, when your pet displays signs of fear, it is telling you that they want/need to protect themselves and feel safe. By carefully observing your pet’s body language and behaviour, you can gain insights into their emotional experiences and better understand their needs. This understanding, in turn, empowers you to effectively manage any behaviour concerns you may have about your pet.
The model I use to define behaviour problems in pets is based on the work of neuroscientist Panksepp, who identified specific neural pathways associated with primary emotions: Desire or Seeking, Social play or Joy, Care, Lust, Fear and Anxiety, Rage or Frustration, and Panic/ grief or Sadness. These emotions are innate and not learned, though their intensity can vary based on experiences, learning, environmental factors, and the activation of the nervous system (this is arousal or excitement levels).
Here’s what each of these emotions means:
– Desire or Seeking: This is the drive to acquire resources, motivating behaviours like object play, scent work, predatory behaviour and searching for food or a place to relieve themselves.
– Social Play or Joy: This is positive interactions with members of their own species.
– Care: Typically, this involves nurturing offspring.
– Lust: This is the reproductive motivation.
– Fear and Anxiety: These emotions that serve as protective responses to potential or real threats.
– Rage or Frustration: This emotion arises when expectations or goals are thwarted.
– Panic and Grief or Sadness: This is activated by the loss of proximity to a nurturing caregiver.
To illustrate how these emotions relate to behaviours, let’s consider examples in dog and cat behaviour problems:
