Biology and You

You and the “other” Animals

Can animals suffer from psychological disorders?

Although animals are used as models for research into disorders like anxiety, depression, and even schizophrenia, these conditions have been induced in them either through surgery or behavioral treatments. Scientists are currently developing strains of mice and rats that are genetically predisposed toward these diseases in hopes of gaining a better understanding of symptoms and developing more effective treatments. As for animals in the wild, the answer lies in the still unresolved issues of whether animals experience emotions and whether they have consciousness or the awareness of self.



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