Pets, animal-assisted therapy and social inclusion
Journal article
Holttum, S. 2018. Pets, animal-assisted therapy and social inclusion. Mental Health and Social Inclusion. 22 (2), pp. 65-71. https://doi.org/10.1108/MHSI-02-2018-0004
Authors | Holttum, S. |
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Abstract | Purpose: Humans have close relationships with animals for companionship and in working roles. The purpose of this paper is to discuss recent papers on pets and dog-assisted interventions, and relates their findings to social inclusion. Design/methodology/approach: A search was carried out for recent papers on pets, animal-assisted therapy and social inclusion/exclusion. Findings: One paper discusses theories (often lacking in studies of animal-assisted therapy) of why animals may be good for human health and development. A recent review shows evidence that family pet ownership may aid children’s well-being, learning and social development, but too few studies have followed children over time in pet and non-pet households. Studies of dog-assisted interventions show stress-reduction, which in turn may explain why therapy for mental health in young people and adults was more effective with a dog than without. Social inclusion is hinted at but not measured directly, yet dog-assisted therapy might be helpful in this regard. Originality/value: All the papers discussed in detail here represent up-to-date understanding in this area of knowledge. Benefits of human-animal bonds, especially with dogs, appear to be well-supported by biological as well as observational and self-report evidence. More research is needed on how much these attachments may assist social relating and relationships with other people, and social inclusion. |
Keywords | Social inclusion; attachment; theories; dog-assisted therapy; Pet owning |
Year | 2018 |
Journal | Mental Health and Social Inclusion |
Journal citation | 22 (2), pp. 65-71 |
Publisher | Emerald |
ISSN | 2042-8308 |
Digital Object Identifier (DOI) | https://doi.org/10.1108/MHSI-02-2018-0004 |
Official URL | https://www.emeraldinsight.com/doi/full/10.1108/MHSI-02-2018-0004 |
Publication process dates | |
Deposited | 15 Jan 2019 |
Accepted | 12 Feb 2018 |
Output status | Published |
https://repository.canterbury.ac.uk/item/88y3q/pets-animal-assisted-therapy-and-social-inclusion
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