Zoochosis The mental stress and frustration exhibited in circus animals in captivity is known as “zoochosis.” Being deprived of their natural environments, behaviors, and stimuli, animals start to mentally shut down to cope with the overwhelming stress. This manifests itself in a number of abnormal physical displays, such as, stereotypic rocking back and forth, incessant grooming, pacing, and self-destructive behaviors including refusal to eat, and self