Key Findings from the Systematic Review
The review analyzed 21 studies involving animal-assisted programs and identified several critical outcomes:- Common Animals Used: Dogs and horses were the most frequently used animals in these programs.
- Target Disorders: Autism, cerebral palsy, and ADHD were the most commonly addressed disorders.
- Program Variability: There was considerable variation in session lengths and overall program durations.
- Outcome Measures: The primary measures focused on physiological variables related to the nervous system and motor skills.
Implementing Animal-Assisted Programs: Practical Recommendations
Based on the review's findings, practitioners can enhance their therapeutic interventions by considering the following recommendations:- Choose the Right Animal: Select animals that are most effective for the specific needs of the child. For instance, dogs are commonly used for children with autism, while horses are often used for those with cerebral palsy.
- Session Length and Frequency: The review suggests that sessions should generally be under 60 minutes. Programs should run for at least six weeks with one or two sessions per week to develop a therapeutic bond.
- Focus on Physical and Psychological Outcomes: While the primary focus has been on physical health, integrating psychological measures can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the program's effectiveness.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work with child psychiatrists, general pediatricians, and other specialists to create a multidisciplinary approach that addresses both physical and psychological needs.
Encouraging Further Research
The review highlights the need for more research to understand the long-term benefits and the interplay between physiological and psychological outcomes. Practitioners and researchers should:- Conduct longitudinal studies to assess the long-term impact of animal-assisted programs.
- Compare various animal-assisted interventions to identify the most effective practices.
- Explore the correlation between physiological markers (e.g., heart rate, cortisol levels) and psychological well-being.
Animal-assisted programs offer promising benefits for children and adolescents with special education needs. By implementing the findings from this systematic review, practitioners can enhance their therapeutic approaches and contribute to the growing body of research in this field.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: The role of animal-assisted programs in physical health improvement of children and adolescents with special education needs - a systematic review.
