Join us as we explore the complex relationship and differences between choice, freedom, and agency in animal training; and delve into whether our current discussions surrounding agency are truly reaping the benefits described in the current literature to empower animals. The science is clear, agency isn't an aspiration, it's a prerequisite and fundamental component of instructional design. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking journey!

References: 

Bandura, A. (n.d.). Agency. Albert Bandura Social Psychology. https://albertbandura.com/albert-bandura-agency.html 

Bandura, A. (1977). Self-efficacy: Toward a unifying theory of behavioral change. Psychological Review, 84, 191-215.

Desnoyer, Brittany & Liu, Kimy. (2022). Personal Agency as a Component of Applied Behavior Analysis. Intervention in School and Clinic. 105345122211405. 10.1177/10534512221140529. 

Hebert, Emmie & Flynn, Maureen & Wilson, Kelly & Kellum, Karen. (2021). Values Intervention as an Establishing Operation for Approach in the Presence of Aversive Stimuli. Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science. 20. 10.1016/j.jcbs.2021.04.001. 

Maier SF, Seligman ME. Learned helplessness at fifty: Insights from neuroscience. Psychol Rev. 2016 Jul;123(4):349-67. doi: 10.1037/rev0000033. PMID: 27337390; PMCID: PMC4920136.

Ming, S., Gould, E., & Fiebig, J. H. (2023). Understanding and applying relational frame theory: Mastering the foundations of complex language in our work and lives as behavior analysts. Context Press, New Harbinger Publications, Inc. 

Veilleux, J. C. (2023). A Theory of Momentary Distress Tolerance: Toward Understanding Contextually Situated Choices to Engage With or Avoid Distress. Clinical Psychological Science, 11(2), 357–380. https://doi.org/10.1177/21677026221118327

Wilson, K. G., & DuFrene, T. (2009). Mindfulness for Two: An Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Approach to Mindfulness in Psychotherapy. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger.