Health And Learning Benefits
DO ANIMAL-ASSISTED ACTIVITIES EFFECTIVELY TREAT DEPRESSION? A META-ANALYSIS
Authors:
Megan A. Souter, Michelle D. Miller
Northern Arizona University
Abstract:
We conducted a meta-analysis to determine the effectiveness of animal-assisted activities (AAA) and animal-assisted therapy (AAT) for reducing depressive symptoms in humans. To be included in the meta-analysis, studies had to demonstrate random assignment, include a comparison/control group, use AAA or AAT, use a self-report measure of depression, and report sufficient information to calculate effect sizes, a statistical standardization of the strength of a treatment effect. Five studies were identified for analysis. The aggregate effect size for these studies was of medium magnitude and statistically significant, indicating that AAA/AAT are associated with fewer depressive symptoms. This analysis revealed gaps in the research on AAA/AAT, which we attempted to identify in order to better understand the factors that make AAA and AAT effective at reducing depression.
ALL CREATURES GREAT AND SMALL: NEW PERSPECTIVES ON PSYCHOLOGY AND HUMAN-ANIMAL INTERACTIONS
Author:
Harold Herzog
Western Carolina University
Abstract:
Relations between humans and nonhuman animals are morally significant, intense, enduring, and pervasive. Presented here are current perspectives on social and psychological aspects of human–animal interactions. The articles in this issue focus on three broad themes—attitudes toward the use of other species, the effects of relationships with companion animals on human health and well-being, and the ethical and policy implications of our interactions with other species. The article represent a mix of theory, qualitative and quantitative empirical approaches, review, and policy recommendations on a topic that has historically been neglected by social scientists.
HUMAN-ANIMAL BONDS I: THE RELATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE OF COMPANION ANIMALS
Author:
Froma Walsh
University of Chicago
Abstract:
The importance of human-animal bonds has been documented throughout history, across cultures, and in recent research. However, attachments with companion animals have been undervalued and even pathologized in the field of mental health. This article briefly surveys the evolution of human-animal bonds, reviews research on their health and mental health benefits, and examines their profound relational significance across the life course. Finally, the emerging field of animal-assisted interventions is described, noting applications in hospital and eldercare settings, and in innovative school, prison, farm, and community programs. The aim of this overview paper is to stimulate more attention to these vital bonds in systems-oriented theory, practice, and research. A companion paper in this issue focuses on the role of pets and relational dynamics in
family systems and family therapy.
Health Benefits
EQUINE-ASSISTED THERAPY AND LEARNING WITH AT-RISK YOUNG PEOPLE
Animal-Assisted Therapy for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Use of Animal-Assisted Therapy with Psychiatric Patients
Animal-Assisted Interventions and Psychiatric Disorders: Knowledge and Attitudes among General Practitioners, Psychiatrists, and Psychologists
Applying One Health to the Study of Animal-Assisted Interventions
Animal-Assisted Therapy in Patients Hospitalized with Heart Failure
Animal-Assisted Therapy: A Meta-Analysis
A Healing Space: The Experiences of First Nations and Inuit Youth with Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL)
Not Just Horsing Around: The Impact of Equine-Assisted Learning on Levels of Hope and Depression in At-Risk Adolescents
Animal-Assisted Intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Literature Review
Animal-assisted therapy for persons with aphasia: A pilot study
Animal-Assisted Therapy and the Severely Disabled Child: A Quantitative Study
Important elements in farm animal-assisted interventions for persons with clinical depression: a qualitative interview study
Dolphin-Assisted Therapy: Changes in Interaction and Communication between Children with Severe Disabilities and Their Caregivers
Resident and therapist views of animal-assisted therapy: Implications for occupational therapy practice
Learning Benefits
EQUINE-ASSISTED THERAPY AND LEARNING WITH AT-RISK YOUNG PEOPLE
Animal-Assisted Literacy: A Supportive Environment for Constrained and Unconstrained Learning
Paws for a Study Break: Running an Animal Assisted Therapy Program at the Gerstein Science Information Centre
Horses for Courses: Exploring the Limits of Leadership Development Through Equine-Assisted Learning
‘Queen of the world’: experiences of ‘at-risk’ young people participating in equine-assisted learning/therapy
Potential for the Role of School-Based Animal-Assisted Literacy Mentoring Programs
Animal-assisted Activities for Students With Disabilities: Obtaining Stakeholders' Approval and Planning Strategies for Teachers
Brief Report: The Smiles of a Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder During an Animal-assisted Activity May Facilitate Social Positive Behaviors—Quantitative Analysis with Smile-detecting Interface
Exploring Animal-Assisted Programs with Children in School and Therapeutic Contexts
Animal-Assisted Therapy: A Meta-Analysis
Conceptual Framework for Animal Assisted Therapy
The Application of Animal-Assisted Therapy in the South African Context: A Case Study
Animal Assisted Activity with Older Adult Retirement Facility Residents: The PAWSitive Visits Program
The Effect of an Animal-Assisted Reading Program on the Reading Rate, Accuracy and Comprehension of Grade 3 Students: A Randomized Control Study
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy: The Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association’s Model Overview of Equine-Based Modalities