Non-human Animals

Question 1

What sections are used to explain non-human animals?

Answer 1

• BPS guidelines for psychologists working with animals
• Comparative Psychology
• Use as a therapeutic device
• Speciesism

Question 2

What are the BPS guidelines with working with animals?

Answer 2

• choose the correct animal for the research
• Responsibilities to care for animals and think about previous research animal involved in
• Animals Act - only permitted with a license
• Use of animal has to be justified
• Can ONLY be done using animals
• reduce harm

Question 3

What is Comparative psychology with animals?

Answer 3

Harlow - monkeys
- the comparison of humans to animals
- monkeys developed into maladjusted emotionally adults
- but research had a very useful impact of understanding humans and animals in providing care

Question 4

What is the use of animals as a therapeutic device?

Answer 4

the use of pets has been shown to reduce stress - release oxytocin
- reduce blood pressure
- reduced cardiovascular risk
- known as behavioural facilitators
- create a social bond
- help people explore sensitive issues

Question 5

Evaluate the use of animals as a therapeutic device

Answer 5

• all studies involving animals as a therapeutic device have beneficial effects
• benefits may be due to having special attention rather than the animal interaction

Question 6

What is speciesism?

Answer 6

when animals are discriminated above other species
- Is it any different to sexism?
should have a special duty of care to animals
Animal rights - utilitarian vs absolutist
- utilitarian - whatever produces the greater good for the most people
- absolutist - have a right to be treated with respect - never used for research
having rights means they have responsibilities - animals don’t have any
- what are responsibilities? perception