Abstract

Stereotypies, or stereotypic behaviours, are generally defined as unvarying, repetitive behaviour patterns that have no obvious goal or function. There are obvious examples, which include bar-biting of closely confined sows, wind sucking of stabled horses and repetitive pacing of certain zoo animals. However, many other less specific behaviour patterns can also be included. This book is the first to provide a comprehensive review of this topic. Stereotypies are analysed in terms of motivation, subjectivity, physiology, psychopharmacology and function, and the concluding chapter covers future research directions and implications for animal welfare. There are 14 contributors, including the editors, all of whom are active, leading experts in this field.