<aside> ⁉️ In the context of Play+, Aporia refers to a deliberate pause or moment of uncertainty created by the handler in the dog training process.
This intentional impasse, inspired by philosophical roots, serves to build anticipation and drive the dog's intensity towards the desired action or behavior. It's a strategic tool used to assert or reestablish the handler's initiative in the game, sparking the dog's curiosity and engagement while fostering a rhythmic attunement between the dog and handler. Aporia can also be enhanced with an Expectant Marker, providing additional structure to this anticipatory pause.
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Aporia is to build anticipation and expectancy in the dog, putting it in a responsive posture where it's eager to follow the forthcoming trigger. The dog is not taking the initiative per se, but rather is being put in a state of heightened readiness by the handler's deliberate pause.
This strategy of maintaining the initiative aligns with constructive Aporia. By choosing not to immediately offer the trigger, the handler retains control of the situation and directs the pace of the training. This way, the handler keeps the dog engaged and attentive, ready to react promptly when the trigger is finally given.
The exceptions you mention, free shaping situations and proofing exercises, are understandable as they require different dynamics where the dog might take more initiative.
This nuanced understanding of the balance of initiative between handler and dog in different situations further demonstrates the depth and sophistication of the Play+ philosophy.
When we talk about "constructive ambiguity", we're referring to a state where the situation is intentionally left unclear or open-ended. This isn't a state of confusion, but rather a structured uncertainty that encourages the dog to remain engaged and anticipate the upcoming cue or action. The ambiguity creates a "question" that the dog is eager to find an answer to.
The Aporetic Domain is split into Confusion and Dismissal, with the latter serving as a tool for intentional disengagement and managing engagement dynamics.
This is a unique domain in Play+. It is a state of intentional pause, where nothing is happening, and the handler is off-limits. It's a moment of mutual understanding, where everyone knows what's going on. This pause is used for planning, equipment adjustments, or rhythmic purposes in the game. It serves as an 'off switch' for expectancy, giving both handler and dog a break from the engagement, and offering space for novelty and new beginnings.