How Are Animals' Behaviors Measured & Interpreted?

Researchers measure and interpret animal behavior in a variety of different settings, carefully documenting their observations. They record behavioral choices of animals, define behaviors and measure the number of actions. Scientists must be especially careful when interpreting animal behavior. Many researchers mistakenly anthropomorphize animal behavior by applying human beliefs and feelings to the behaviors. Researchers must be certain to use objective techniques when interpreting these behaviors.

  1. Natural Environment

    • Because animals often behave differently in artificial settings, the natural environment provides valuable information about animal behavior. Researchers go into the field to watch how animals behave in social situations, solve problems, respond to threats, and navigate their natural environment. These behaviors are carefully observed and recorded in written and/or video form. Abnormal behaviors are noted. The researcher may or may not interact with the animal depending on the exact nature of the research. Any interaction will add some artificiality into the setting. Researchers will watch the outcomes of the different types of behavior to interpret their meanings.

    Laboratory

    • Researchers measure and interpret animal behaviors in many different experiments within a laboratory. Researchers test animals behavior in response to stimuli and based on expected reinforcement. They measure preference by giving animals a choice between two different rewards. They may measure how quickly animals learn and adapt to obstacles by offering rewards for successful completion of mazes and other challenges. The exact behaviors are recorded and subsequently interpreted in measures such as cause and effect. Researchers interpret why animals make certain choices and change their behavior based on the differences in variables.

    Video Observation

    • Video observation offers a convenient way to measure and interpret animal behavior because it allows multiple scientists to carefully study the behavior of the animals and to keep a video record. If researchers are studying a particular behavior or response, then they may note how often it was displayed or the extent to which it was shown. Researchers may then theorize why the animals performed this behavior. They will also look at the different factors that made the behavior more or less probable.

    Zoo/Aquariums

    • Animal behavior is measured and interpreted in facilities such as zoos, aquariums and conservation organizations. Animals are often raised in these settings from birth and throughout life; thus, it allows researchers to view the behaviors across the age of the animals. It also shows how behaviors differ for animals born in captivity. Researchers look for unusual behaviors and will interpret whether captivity or other factors play a part in their arrival. They watch for emotional attachments and social bonds between other animals and humans.