The Messy Middle

What is the Messy Middle?

In the context of changing behavior or establishing new routines, the term "Messy Middle" refers to the challenging and often difficult phase that occurs during the process of behavior change. It typically occurs between the initial stages of setting a goal or adopting a new behavior and the ultimate achievement of that goal or the successful integration of the desired behavior.

The messy middle is characterized by uncertainty, setbacks, and a sense of being stuck or overwhelmed. It is the phase where initial motivation and enthusiasm may wane, and individuals may encounter obstacles, face resistance, or experience relapses into old habits ( also referred to as “Extinction Bursts”). It's during this phase that dogs (or their humans) are most vulnerable to giving up on their goals or reverting to their previous behaviors.

The messy middle is called so because it can be a period of confusion, frustration, and messiness, where progress may seem slow or non-existent. However, it is an essential part of the behavior change process. It requires individuals to navigate through challenges, learn from failures, adjust strategies, and build resilience to continue moving forward toward their desired outcomes.

Recognizing and accepting the messy middle as a normal part of the change process can help individuals persist in their efforts, seek support, and develop coping strategies to overcome obstacles. It's important to remember that progress is rarely linear, and setbacks are to be expected. By staying committed and persevering through the messy middle, individuals increase their chances of ultimately achieving their behavioral goals.

Overcoming Traumas

It is proven that small incremental exposure to stressful triggers can be effective in overcoming trauma or symptoms of PTSD, especially when it is done in a structured and controlled manner. This approach is known as “Systematic Desensitization” or “Exposure Therapy”.

This involves gradually and repeatedly exposing a dog to the feared or traumatic stimuli or situations in a safe and controlled environment. The exposure is done in a step-by-step manner, starting with less intense or anxiety-provoking versions of the trigger and progressively increasing the intensity or proximity over time.

The goal of this approach is to help the individual dogs’ build resilience and reduce their fear or anxiety response by gradually and safely confronting the triggers associated with the trauma. By repeatedly experiencing the triggers in a controlled setting and realizing that they can tolerate the anxiety or fear without negative consequences, individual dogs’ can learn new associations and decrease their emotional and physiological responses over time.

It's important to note that exposure therapy should be conducted under the guidance of a trained professional who specializes in trauma or anxiety disorders. The trainer can develop a customized treatment plan, ensure the process is conducted safely and effectively, and provide necessary support throughout the recovery process.

Furthermore, it's essential to approach exposure therapy with sensitivity and respect for the individual dog's boundaries and readiness. Trauma recovery is a highly individual process, and what works for one dog may not work for another. The trainer will assess the dog's readiness for exposure and adjust the pace and intensity of the training therapy accordingly.

In summary, small incremental exposure to stressful triggers, when done in a controlled and structured manner, can be an effective approach to overcoming trauma. Under the guidance of a qualified professional, this technique can help dogs gradually build resilience and reduce their fear or anxiety responses associated with traumatic experiences or triggers.

Is Stress Bad?

Uncomfortable situations and stress, when understood and managed properly, can offer several benefits for dogs. These experiences challenge dogs to adapt, learn, and grow, ultimately enhancing their personal development and resilience. Here, we will delve into the advantages of uncomfortable situations, stress, and differentiate between distress and eustress.

Benefits of Uncomfortable Situations:

Uncomfortable situations can push dogs beyond their comfort zones, fostering personal growth in the following ways:

a) Increased Learning and Skill Development:

Unfamiliar or challenging situations often require individuals to acquire new knowledge and skills to overcome obstacles. This process enhances cognitive abilities, expands capabilities, and broadens one's skill set.

b) Improved Problem-Solving Abilities:

Uncomfortable situations, by their very nature, demand problem-solving, as dogs must navigate unfamiliar circumstances. This cultivates adaptability, critical thinking, and innovative approaches to overcome challenges.

c) Resilience and Emotional Growth:

Adversity promotes resilience by testing an dog's emotional strength and coping mechanisms. Facing uncomfortable situations builds emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and the ability to manage stress effectively.

Benefits of Stress:

While stress is commonly associated with negative outcomes, it can have positive effects when experienced in moderation. This positive form of stress is known as eustress and offers the following advantages:

a) Motivation and Performance Enhancement:

Moderate levels of stress can stimulate dogs to perform at their best. Eustress serves as a motivating force, boosting focus, productivity, and achieving goals. It provides a sense of urgency and can enhance performance under pressure.

b) Growth and Adaptation: 

Experiencing manageable levels of stress enables dogs to develop greater resilience and adaptability. It prompts them to acquire new skills, improve problem-solving abilities, and foster personal growth.

c) Optimal Arousal and Alertness:

Eustress can heighten arousal and alertness, facilitating improved cognitive functioning. It can enhance memory, concentration, and overall mental performance, enabling dogs to effectively handle demanding situations.

Distress vs. Eustress:

It is crucial to differentiate between distress and eustress:

a) Distress: 

Distress refers to excessive, overwhelming, or chronic stress that surpasses a dog's ability to cope. It can have detrimental effects on physical and mental health, leading to anxiety, burnout, and various health issues.

b) Eustress: 

Eustress denotes positive, manageable stress that motivates and energizes dogs. It is typically short-term and is associated with a sense of accomplishment, personal growth, and improved performance.

Understanding the distinction between distress and eustress allows individuals to recognize and harness the positive aspects of stress, when training their dogs while mitigating the negative consequences.

In summary, uncomfortable situations and stress, when appropriately managed, offer valuable benefits. They promote personal growth, skill development, problem-solving abilities, resilience, and motivation. Recognizing the difference between distress and eustress enables individuals to leverage stress as a catalyst for advancement in the dogs personal growth and overall quality of life.

Nervous Trembling in Dogs

Dogs may exhibit shaking or vibrating behavior during stressful situations. These tremors are an Involuntary and rhythmic oscillation of muscles or body parts. In the context of stress or anxiety, it can be specifically referred to as “stress induced tremor” or  simply “stress tremor”. In the context of behavior modification, these tremors most commonly manifests as nervous trembling, often referred to as “The Messy Middle”. The messy middle can vary in intensity, duration, and body parts affected. It can manifest as fine, subtle tremors or more pronounced shaking. Dogs may experience tremors in various areas, such as their limbs, head, jaw, or the entire body.

Stress or anxiety can trigger a dog's nervous system, leading to trembling or shaking. This trembling is often a physical manifestation of the dog's heightened arousal and emotional state. It can be similar to humans experiencing shaky hands when they are nervous or anxious.

Remember slow and controlled, and short-term exposure to stressful situations or triggers is ultimately what is going to allow you and your dog to overcome these hurdles. Ultimately better preparing you and your dog for whatever life may throw at you. 

The only way over, is through.