Relation

The Use of Animals in Analog Research

Due to the ethical concerns of using human subjects in analog research, some propose the use of animals as an alternative. With animals, researchers can exert nearly perfect control over their diets, living conditions, and even genetic background. As animals generally have shorter life spans, phenomena that may take years to study in humans can be studied in a few months with, say, rats. Furthermore, a number of “naturally” occurring behavior disorders (e.g., aggression, mood disorders. activity, eating disorders) commonly seen in animals, are also relevant in the field of psychopathology (Aldelda & Joel, 2011). Some even argue for the relevance of animal research when investigating personality traits (e.g., Canli, 2006; i Ho. & Schwarting, 2008). Nonetheless, researchers debate if the behavior of animals can really be analogous to that of humans, and thus valid in research studies.

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Updated 2025-09-26

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