Investigating Human-Animal Interactions in Homes of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: a Mixed-Methods Approach
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Abstract
Research has shown that animal-assisted therapies can be beneficial for mental and physical needs within vulnerable populations. Research aims include: 1) To examine the heterogeneity of interactions between children with ASD and their animals in their homes through quantitative data; 2) To explore the experiences of animal ownership in families of children with ASD through qualitative interviews. Results included 10 individuals with varying ASD severity based on Social Responsiveness Scale, varying income ranges, and age. Quantitative results showed age was strongly associated with higher touch, gesture, and affection scores; children with severe ASD had the lowest and children with moderate ASD had the highest total human-animal interaction scores. Qualitative analysis revealed three major themes within the participant interviews: child development, family considerations, and comfort. Future research should include larger observational studies to help identify the effects income levels and ASD severity may have on animal-child relationships.
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| All Time | Past 365 days | Past 30 Days | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abstract Views | 344 | 344 | 15 |
| Full Text Views | 14 | 14 | 0 |
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Investigating Human-Animal Interactions in Homes of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: a Mixed-Methods Approach
In: Society & AnimalsSearch for other papers by Caitlin Lisk in
Current site
Google Scholar
PubMed
Search for other papers by Lisa Mische Lawson in
Current site
Google Scholar
PubMed
Abstract
Research has shown that animal-assisted therapies can be beneficial for mental and physical needs within vulnerable populations. Research aims include: 1) To examine the heterogeneity of interactions between children with ASD and their animals in their homes through quantitative data; 2) To explore the experiences of animal ownership in families of children with ASD through qualitative interviews. Results included 10 individuals with varying ASD severity based on Social Responsiveness Scale, varying income ranges, and age. Quantitative results showed age was strongly associated with higher touch, gesture, and affection scores; children with severe ASD had the lowest and children with moderate ASD had the highest total human-animal interaction scores. Qualitative analysis revealed three major themes within the participant interviews: child development, family considerations, and comfort. Future research should include larger observational studies to help identify the effects income levels and ASD severity may have on animal-child relationships.
| All Time | Past 365 days | Past 30 Days | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abstract Views | 344 | 344 | 15 |
| Full Text Views | 14 | 14 | 0 |
| PDF Views & Downloads | 263 | 263 | 18 |