Promoting Young Children’s Wellbeing in the Aftermath of Crisis and Disaster: An Evidence-Based Rationale for Animal-Assisted Services
摘要
Although the concept that positive interactions between humans and other species can be beneficial has existed for centuries, animal-assisted intervention (AAI) as part of professional practice is a relatively recent development. There is a growing body of international and interdisciplinary research to support the assertion that, for many people, participating in planned, positive interactions with carefully selected and trained animals can contribute to human wellbeing. In crisis or disaster situations, young children often experience trauma, grief, and loss. One promising practice is making animal-assisted services part of the response and relief efforts. Therapy animals—most often, dogs—are health-checked, behavior/temperament tested animals who are calm, friendly, and welcome attention, even from strangers. Their general purpose, supported by empirical evidence, is to elevate positive mood, reduce stress, and invite conversation. This chapter begins by describing various roles that specially trained dogs have played in supporting children’s wellness in stressful circumstances. Next, it highlights seven strands in the research that build a rationale for incorporating therapy animals into crisis response. The chapter concludes with recommendations for educators and their community partners on implementing animal-assisted services designed to build young children’s coping and resilience in the aftermath of disaster.