The Effect of Animal-Assisted Therapy on Stress Responses in Hospitalized Children
Submitted on Aug 30, 2010 (Original item from 2010)
Companion Animals | Pharmaceutical, Medical or Biomedical Research | Psychology, Social Development, Social Motivations | Youths - Social, Ethical Development
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Short Description:
This study examined the effects of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) on the cardiovascular responses, anxiety, and medical fears of hospitalized children and found that AAT may help children cope better in a hospital setting.
Abstract:
Hospitalization is a stressful experience for children that may lead to negative physiological and psychological effects. This study examined the effects of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) on the stress level of children in a hospital setting.
During these experiments, the heart rate and blood pressure of children were measured pre-, during, and post- visits with AAT animals. The findings suggest that the cardiovascular effect of AAT may continue for at least a few minutes after the AAT ends, although the anxiety and fear levels exhibited by the children did not differ after the AAT visits. Overall, this research indicates that AAT may be useful in helping children cope better in a hospital setting.
Spot Check Number:
1461
Sponsor:
Anthrozoos
Animal Type:
Dogs
Record Type:
Survey Summary
Research Method:
Experimental/Modeling/Applications
Geographic Region:
United States National
Number of Participants:
15
Population Descriptors:
Children in a hospital setting
Year Conducted:
2010
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