Martin, A. L., Bloomsmith, M. A., Perlman, J. E. 2011. An assessment program to monitor behavior and evaluate treatment of behavioral problems. American Journal of Primatology 73(S1), 85. (34th Meeting of the American Society of Primatologists Scientific Program, Abstract #159)

At the Yerkes National Primate Center we have developed a system for behavioral assessment that includes these elements: frequent observation of behavior for all primates with a check sheet-type record; a quantitative system for recording levels of hair loss; predetermined threshold levels of problematic behaviors that then trigger additional assessment; quantitative behavioral data collection with an ethogram used across multiple species; an automated system to generate graphs from the data collected; and a treatment plan based on the severity and frequency of the behavioral problem identified. Of the caged primates [N=1173] currently at Yerkes, 6% are undergoing assessment and treatment for problem behaviors, and an additional 16% receive a maintenance treatment. Among those actively being assessed for problem behaviors, 48% have a history of self-injurious behaviors, 18% have a history of self biting without injury,18% exhibit severe hair loss, and the remainder exhibit a variety of other abnormal behaviors.