Byström, Kristina
- Department of People and Society, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
- Skaraborg Institute for Research and Development
Abstract
The aim of this study was to understand parents' perspectives on how children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) benefit from a relationship with companion animals. Parents were invited to participate in focus-group discussions. One open-ended question with follow-up questions was asked and the parents' responses were subsequently categorized. Three main themes emerged: the quality of the relationship with the companion animal; increased interaction with people; and optimization of the child's function and development. The results show that companion animals can contribute to social and behavioral development support, and improved mental health and quality of life. The children's and adolescents' interests and activities with companion animals were more social than non-social and of different quality than the restricted and repetitive activities in which children with ASD are normally engaged. Our findings describe a complementary developmental support for this vulnerable group of children and adolescents, which give them possibilities for expanded social contacts, diminished anxiety and depression, and facilitated learning.
Keywords
autism spectrum disorders; child development; human-companion animal interaction
Published in
Anthrozoös
2015, volume: 28, number: 2, pages: 263-275
Publisher: BLOOMSBURY PUBLISHING PLC
SLU Authors
Associated SLU-program
Human-Animal Interactions
Global goals (SDG)
SDG3 Good health and well-being
SDG4 Quality education
UKÄ Subject classification
Other Health Sciences
Publication identifier
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.2752/089279315X14219211661813
Permanent link to this page (URI)
https://res.slu.se/id/publ/71168