Which statement is true regarding classical counter conditioning (CCC)?

Classical counter conditioning (CCC) is a behavioral modification technique that focuses on changing an animal’s emotional response to a stimulus. The correct statement highlights that CCC effectively transforms a negative emotion into a positive one. This process involves pairing a previously neutral stimulus with a positive or rewarding experience. For example, if a horse is frightened by a specific sound, CCC would involve presenting that sound at a low intensity while simultaneously providing treats or praise, thereby associating the sound with something enjoyable and safe.

This change in emotional response is crucial for reducing anxiety and fear, making it an essential method in Fear Free veterinary practices. The positive experiences help the horse to develop a more relaxed or even happy association with situations that previously induced fear or stress, facilitating better behavior and cooperation during veterinary care.

In contrast, other methods that aim to modify behavior, such as punishment or aversive stimuli, do not promote a positive emotional shift and can often exacerbate fear and anxiety rather than alleviate it. Additionally, the effectiveness of CCC is not solely dependent on speed; it relies on consistency, timing, and the individual animal's ability to form new associations over time.