Posted by lucie lu on February 11, 2009, at 15:57:17
In reply to Re: (Therapists) » backseatdriver, posted by raisinb on February 11, 2009, at 15:34:07
My border collie mix does both, bump us from behind to herd us (toward the door) and try to stare us into doing what he wants (let him out). I have been trying to teach him to "use his words" instead of acting out. As smart as he is, being a border collie, he has trouble articulating the word "out." But he does get the concept, and I usually settle for a low growl and then let him out (our yard is fenced in).
In most of the animal kingdom, staring is considered a very aggressive act. In the body language of many animals, staring at the alpha member can get you attacked (in many cities, staring at anyone can get you attacked).
Staring asserts your dominance if you are the one staring and able to hold your gaze. The meaning of this behavior in therapists is therefore up for question.
poster:lucie lu
thread:879322
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20090129/msgs/879485.html