01/29/2025
Even a trainerโs dog has โemotions.โ However, we have to define what that โlooksโ like (operationalize) to conduct an effective analysis of behavior.
Emotions (or internal private events) CAN be observed and measured (once we make them public events). They can manifest through discrete (โinternalโ) actions and physiological changes (e.g., heart rate) that can be analyzed (once defined) in relation to antecedent stimuli.
Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence (ABCs)
Emotions are typically triggered by specific antecedent events or stimuli in the environment. This can include external events (like a loud noise, dog mom leaving, etc.) or from history. The BEHAVIORAL response serves as a way to adaptively respond to these stimuli. That is why understanding antecedent events and collecting data is so important! Yes, and your own behavior. Then we sprinkle some positive reinforcement (consequence) to shape desirable behaviors.
From a behavioral perspective, emotions can be functional in nature. We just have to operationalize! They can influence observable behavior in ways that often promote survival and adaptation. Collect the data!!
Emotions are shaped by an individualโs (or a dogโs) learning history and past experiences. Classical (i.e., respondent/reflexive) and OPERANT conditioning (e.g., positive reinforcement) can all influence how โemotionsโ are expressed. For instance, if a DOG has learned to associate (classical conditioning) a particular situation (due to past experiences), they may behave a certain way when encountering similar situations in the future (remember, dogs are all about associations). Think of what happens when you grab your keysโฆ Whatโs your dog do? What do you do?
Emotions (even if private/internal states) can influence observable behaviors. They can โmotivateโ individuals or dogs to take action (approach or avoid/escape) and can also guide decision-making processes.
