Feline Feelings: Love, Loss, the Science of Attachment with Dr. Jennifer Vonk
Jennifer Vonk received her PhD in comparative psychology from York University, Canada in 2002 and previously held a faculty position at the University of Southern Mississippi before joining Oakland University in 2011 where she is a Professor of Psychology. She examines the mechanisms underlying cognition and behavior in diverse species (including amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals, human children and adults) with the goal of better understanding the evolutionary factors giving rise to cognitive capacities. She also conducts research that contributes to improving the welfare of captive species and a better understanding of the human/animal relationship. She has published over 170 empirical papers, book chapters, commentaries, and edited volumes and has held several editorial positions including Co-Editor-in-Chief for Animal Behavior and Cognition, Section Editor for PeerJ, and Editor in Chief for Behavioural Processes. She is a fellow of the Society for Behavioral Neuroscience and Comparative Psychology/Division 6 of the American Psychological Association.
Ever wondered what goes on in the minds of our feline friends? Join me as I sit down with Dr. Jennifer Vonk, a trailblazer in comparative and cognitive psychology, to uncover the mysteries of animal cognition and behavior. From her journey transitioning from human cognition research to studying a variety of species like orangutans and domestic cats, Dr. Vonk offers enlightening insights. We tackle the misconceptions of cats as aloof creatures and highlight their surprising ability to form deep social bonds with humans, despite their non-social evolutionary origins.
Our conversation takes a heartfelt turn as we explore the emotional connections between humans and animals, particularly through the lens of attachment and empathy in those with borderline personality disorder and autism. Sharing personal stories and research findings, we challenge common stereotypes, revealing how cats showcase affection just as deeply as dogs. We also navigate the sensitive topic of pet owners' decision-making processes during end-of-life moments, examining how empathy and emotion regulation play critical roles.
Get ready for a journey into the intricacies of pet ownership, animal grief, and sensory perception in cats. Hear about the distinct behaviors of cats following the loss of a companion and the challenges in understanding their emotional responses. Our discussion extends to the importance of recognizing sensory cues and the cognitive abilities of animals typically perceived as solitary. Whether you're a cat enthusiast or simply curious about animal minds, this episode promises to enrich your understanding and appreciation of the emotional lives of animals.
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