An avoidance response is a form of escape behavior present in animals in which the subject evades an aversive event. This can be due to anxiety or a frightening situation.

Avoidance response's are also used in animal training and are the commonly expected response to behavioural modification using negative reinforcement.

Common examples of avoidance responses are:

Horse's submit to the bit (slowing or stopping) in order to avoid the pressure or pain that the bit causes in their mouth if it is pulled upon.

A dog learns to walk quietly at a handler's side in order to avoid the action of a choke chain.

See also

• Escape response
• Startle reaction
• Flight zone

Ethology