That is totally one of the issues with flooding. That's why owners should never attempt flooding on their own. Heck - sometimes it's difficult for trained professionals to tell the difference between shut down and calmness. It's also important to keep in mind that some people (not me) are actually LOOKING for the shut down when they are doing flooding. Because an unsuspecting client won't know the difference. So shady!!!!
It goes like this on TV all the time. Fearful of dogs? Like to lunge at them? I'll just put you in the middle of this huge group of dogs. Look, you're not lunging. Problem solved. UGH!!!
We could do a whole lecture on learning theory. ust didn't have time to get into the nitty gritty tonight. :) Great question. I hope a lot of people read it!
Dr C
