We found a match
Your institution may have access to this item. Find your institution then sign in to continue.
- Title
Benefits and Challenges of Assistance Dogs for Families of Children on the Autism Spectrum: Mothers' Perspectives.
- Authors
Hellings, Dana; Joosten, Annette; Hatfield, Megan; Netto, Julie
- Abstract
Assistance dogs are a potential intervention for families of children on the autism spectrum to support participation. However, the lived experience of families with new assistance dogs has not previously been explored. This study described the expectations, benefits, and challenges of assistance dog ownership for families of children on the autism spectrum. Data were collected from four mothers through semi-structured interviews and photovoice prior to assistance dog placement and following 6 months of ownership. Findings indicated assistance dog ownership enhanced the child's self-regulation and socialization, and increased participation in daily routines. Having an assistance dog also enhanced participation in family outings and activities. Challenges included the adjustment period and the lack of public awareness of autism assistance dogs.
- Subjects
FAMILIES & psychology; SOCIAL participation; SOCIAL support; ATTITUDES of mothers; RESEARCH methodology; SELF-management (Psychology); INTERVIEWING; ACTIVITIES of daily living; PETS; EXPERIENCE; PHENOMENOLOGY; QUALITATIVE research; HUMAN-animal relationships; AUTISM in children; PHOTOGRAPHY; CASE studies; SOUND recordings; STATISTICAL sampling; THEMATIC analysis; PSYCHOLOGICAL adaptation; SERVICE animals; DOGS
- Publication
Qualitative Health Research, 2022, Vol 32, Issue 11, p1648
- ISSN
1049-7323
- Publication type
Academic Journal
- DOI
10.1177/10497323221111247