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I'm Not Like the Others: Atypical Research Subjects in JEAB Publications
Eduardo J Fernandez1, Kennon A Lattal2
1School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior
|September 9, 2025
Summary
Behavior analysts frequently use diverse species beyond common lab animals in their research. This review of the Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior (JEAB) found 65 distinct species used between 1958 and 2023.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral science
- Comparative psychology
- Animal behavior
Background:
- Comparative psychology faces criticism for limited species use.
- Behavior analysis often incorporates atypical subjects in research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the frequency and diversity of subject species in the experimental analysis of behavior (EAB).
- To review publications in the Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior (JEAB) from 1958 to 2023.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of JEAB articles published between 1958 and 2023.
- Identification and categorization of non-typical subject species (excluding pigeons, rats, humans, and nonhuman primates).
Main Results:
- 221 occurrences of atypical subjects across 204 articles were identified.
- 65 distinct species, encompassing both vertebrate and invertebrate taxa, were documented.
- Usage peaks for atypical subjects were observed in the earliest and latest JEAB issues.
Conclusions:
- The use of diverse species in EAB research has varied over time.
- Increased species diversification in EAB could offer significant benefits.
- Understanding trends in subject species use informs future research directions.
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