D05 - Science of Pain and Distress

This session will discuss how the science of pain, stress, and distress has evolved in recent decades, including application of new findings to scientific methods and laboratory animal welfare, as well as the potential risks of anthropomorphism. How are pain, stress, and distress defined, conceptualized, measured, and validated in nonhuman animals? What are the broader implications of this research for fields such as comparative psychology, animal welfare, and beyond? While these experiences can sometimes have adaptive or protective functions, evolving definitions and understandings present both opportunities and challenges. This session will provide a forum to explore how shifting scientific perspectives influence research practices, laboratory animal care, and the responsibilities of IACUCs during protocol review and oversight.