140. Choice and Control with Applied Behavior Scientist, Dr. Susan Friedman

Episode One of Series 16 : The Captivity Question - Transcript (linked)Dr. Susan Friedman joins me to explore captivity through the lens of behaviour science — from choice and control to “freeing the operant,” honouring the no, and shaping the yes. We discuss how environments shape agency for animals in zoos, sanctuaries, and homes, and what true welfare requires.Women Podcaster Awards- VoteGuest Bio: Dr. Susan G. Friedman is a professor emeritus of psychology at Utah State University and the founder of Behavior Works Consulting. She has co‑authored chapters in five veterinary texts, and her widely read articles have been translated into 17 languages. Susan’s online course, How Behavior Works, has reached students in 64 countries, and she consults internationally with zoos and animal‑care organizations, including teaching for BIAZA’s Animal Trainer Accreditation program. She served on the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s California Condor Recovery Team and currently chairs the Scientific Advisory Committee for American Humane’s Film and TV Unit. Her newest initiative, Behavior Works Zoo School, launches in 2026.Susan's Book Recommendations: The Science of Consequences: How They Affect Genes, Change the Brain, and Impact Our World by Susan SchneiderRelated Links: bwzs.orgbehaviourworks.orgTDWA BlogGuest Book Recommendations List - USAUK Guest Book Rec List Behaviour Science Glossary- Operant BehaviourBehaviour animals learn because it works — it produces outcomes they want or helps them avoid outcomes they don’t. It’s shaped by consequences, not instinct.Freeing the OperantDesigning environments where animals can choose how to behave to get outcomes. Instead of training step‑by‑step, you provide meaningful reasons to behave and let the animal’s natural problem‑solving emerge.ReinforcersAnything an animal values enough to work for: food, social contact, exploration, novelty, comfort, problem‑solving. Reinforcers are the “reasons” animals behave.For‑Shortened ReinforcersA concept from Susan Schneider: boredom isn’t caused by small spaces but by limited access to meaningful reinforcers. Captivity reduces the variety of things animals can work for.Engaging EnvironmentsSusan’s preferred term over “enrichment.” Instead of adding extras, it means creating a lifestyle environment that naturally invites exploration, agency, and species‑typical behaviour.ContingencyThe relationship between behaviour and outcome: If I do X, Y happens. Animals constantly test these relationships to understand what they can control.Differential ReinforcementReinforcing one behaviour while not reinforcing another, so the animal learns which behaviour “works.” It teaches what to do, not just what not to do.Extinction (Behaviour Science)When a behaviour stops because it no longer produces the expected outcome. Not punishment — just a missing payoff. Susan discusses new methods that avoid extinction because it can be frustrating for animals.Poisoned Cue / Poisoned LabelA cue or word that has been paired with something unpleasant so often that it becomes aversive. For example, a dog who hears “come!” and expects scolding.Honouring the NoRecognising and respecting when an animal communicates discomfort or refusal — shifting weight, turning away, freezing, widening eyes. It’s the ethical foundation of cooperative care.Shaping the YesAdjusting our behaviour, tools, timing, or reinforcers so the animal can eventually say yes willingly. It’s about building consent, not forcing compliance.Dialogue (Human–Animal)A two‑way interaction where both individuals influence each other’s behaviour. Not negotiation — a responsive conversation built from cues and feedback.Study of OneTreating each animal as an individual learner rather than a representative of their species. Behaviour science is always personal.AgencyAn animal’s ability to make choices that matter — choices that influence their own outcomes. Agency is central to Susan’s welfare philosophy.Mentioned in this episode:PHAIR Conference CoverageNew Miniseries begins Summer 2026