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Animal Attitude Scale

Do you care for animals in the same way you care for people? Take this test to find out if you're a true 'zoophile.'

Scott Travers, Ph.D.

By Scott Travers, Ph.D.

August 7, 2024

Scott Travers, Ph.D., is an American evolutionary biologist based at Rutgers University. His specialty areas include biodiversity, genomics, and herpetology. Scott's research has taken him to faraway places such as the remote jungles of Central America, the deserts of Africa, and the isolated islands of the South Pacific. He has discovered new species, expanded natural history museum collections, and, most importantly, assisted in global conservation efforts. His favorite animals are snakes and his favorite snake is the green tree python.

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People's attitudes towards animals can vary widely—ranging from seeing them as beloved companions to viewing them primarily as resources. Some individuals feel a deep emotional connection to animals, considering them part of the family and advocating for their welfare and rights. Others may appreciate animals for their utility, such as livestock for food or work. There are also those who fear or dislike animals due to past experiences or cultural beliefs.

These attitudes can influence behaviors such as pet ownership, dietary choices, and support for animal protection policies. Understanding your attitudes towards animals is important, as it can shape your interactions with them and influence broader societal norms and policies.

Positive attitudes towards animals often lead to more compassionate and ethical treatment, promoting animal welfare and conservation efforts. Conversely, negative or indifferent attitudes can result in neglect or exploitation. By being aware of your own attitudes, you can make more conscious decisions that align with your values, whether it's choosing to adopt a pet, supporting animal-friendly legislation, or simply appreciating wildlife in your daily life.

The Animal Attitude Scale (AAS) is a valuable tool for assessing an individual's feelings and beliefs about animals. Developed to measure attitudes ranging from empathic to utilitarian, the AAS provides insights that can inform personal and societal actions. By using the scale, you can reflect on your perceptions and consider how these may impact your behavior towards animals.

References: Herzog, H., Grayson, S., & McCord, D. (2015). Brief measures of the Animal Attitude Scale. Anthrozoös, 28. 145-152. https://doi.org/10.2752/089279315X14129350721894

Step 1: Rate the following statements based on how much you agree with them on a scale of strongly disagree to strongly agree.

1. It is morally wrong to hunt wild animals just for sport.

2. I think that using animals in medical research is wrong.

3. I don't think it's acceptable for cattle and hogs to be raised for human consumption.

4. I don't think that humans have the right to use animals as we see fit.

5. The slaughter of whales and dolphins should be immediately stopped, even if it means some people will be put out of work.

6. I sometimes get upset when I see wild animals in cages at zoos.

7. Breeding animals for their skins is not a legitimate use of animals.

8. I don't think it's true that some aspects of biology can only be learned through dissecting preserved animals, such as cats.

9. It is unethical to breed purebred dogs for pets when millions of dogs are killed in animal shelters each year.

10. The use of animals, such as rabbits, for testing the safety of cosmetics and household products is unnecessary and should be stopped.

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Step 2: Enter your age, gender, region, and first name so we can provide you with a detailed report that compares your test scores with people similar to you.

What is your age?

What is your gender?

What region of the world do you live in?

What is your first name?

Step 3: Check to make sure you've provided answers to all of the statements/questions above. Once you've done that, click the button below to send your responses to Awake Therapy's Lead Psychologist, Mark Travers, Ph.D. He will provide you with an overview of how you scored relative to others (all answers are anonymized and confidential to protect users' privacy). He can also answer any follow-up questions you may have.