Training is a tool that can create countless enrichment opportunities for animals. Training can also help reduce stress, increase skill and confidence levels, and even provide enrichment for their human caregivers. There is a good argument that some levels of stress are actually enriching to animals. Stress and anxiety are a normal part of life in the wild for most animals. However, it is generally accepted that relieving stress levels in zoo animals is beneficial.
Training can relieve stress by providing opportunities for animals to participate in their own care.
For years, animal keepers have used training techniques to encourage animals to shift from one holding cage to another. The easiest way for some keepers to induce this behavior was with negative reinforcement. Often this was in the form of a hose, net, trash can lid, etc. The animal learned to move to another area to avoid the negativity and reduce the stress. Negative reinforcement is a valid way to influences behavior.