Why should flooding be avoided when interacting with animals?

Flooding refers to an exposure therapy technique where an animal is subjected to a highly aversive stimulus at full intensity for a prolonged period. One of the primary reasons to avoid flooding in animal interactions is that it can result in learned helplessness. This condition occurs when an animal becomes so overwhelmed by fearful stimuli that it loses the ability to escape or respond effectively, leading to a state where the animal may not attempt to avoid stressors in the future, even when escape is possible.

Additionally, flooding can exacerbate an animal's fear response to that stimulus. Rather than desensitizing the animal to the fear-inducing aspect, it often makes them even more fearful, as they associate the trauma of the experience with the stimulus. This can ultimately create a counterproductive cycle of fear and anxiety.

Flooding can also cause Fear-Avoidance Syndrome (FAS), where the animal develops a stronger aversion towards the source of fear or any scenario that reminds them of the traumatic event that occurred during flooding.

In summary, flooding should be avoided because it can lead to learned helplessness, increase fear responses, and cause FAS, making it crucial for animal caregivers and trainers to use gentler, more supportive approaches that promote gradual exposure and positive reinforcement