Abstract
Introduction: Autism is a developmental disorder characterised by changes in social, communication and behavioural performance. Assistance dogs are one support that may be used by children with autism to assist everyday life participation. Despite growing use, there is limited research regarding the impact of assistance dogs on occupational engagement of children with autism or their families, and no research to date within the Australian context.
Objective: To explore the impact of assistance dogs on the occupational engagement of children with autism and their families.
Method: A qualitative research design was used. Participants included six family caregivers of seven children with autism, who each used assistance dogs. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken, ranging from 45-60 minutes. Data was transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. Trustworthiness was maximised through research team discussions, independent recruitment, member checking and a researcher reflective journal.
Results: Four themes were developed: community participation; daily life; learning; and family unit. Assistance dogs were reported to progress children from ‘isolation’ to ‘freedom’ in community living. They positively influenced the completion of daily routines and supported emotional regulation. Participants reported assistance dogs increased children’s learning and skill development, independence and therapy engagement. The animals were seen to support the whole family. Challenges included family dynamics, maintenance demands, public access and restricted government funding.
Conclusion: This research provides insights to inform assistance dog referral, assessment and use by children with autism and their families. Further research is required to build the evidence-base regarding use of assistance animals, and inform occupational therapy practice.
Objective: To explore the impact of assistance dogs on the occupational engagement of children with autism and their families.
Method: A qualitative research design was used. Participants included six family caregivers of seven children with autism, who each used assistance dogs. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken, ranging from 45-60 minutes. Data was transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. Trustworthiness was maximised through research team discussions, independent recruitment, member checking and a researcher reflective journal.
Results: Four themes were developed: community participation; daily life; learning; and family unit. Assistance dogs were reported to progress children from ‘isolation’ to ‘freedom’ in community living. They positively influenced the completion of daily routines and supported emotional regulation. Participants reported assistance dogs increased children’s learning and skill development, independence and therapy engagement. The animals were seen to support the whole family. Challenges included family dynamics, maintenance demands, public access and restricted government funding.
Conclusion: This research provides insights to inform assistance dog referral, assessment and use by children with autism and their families. Further research is required to build the evidence-base regarding use of assistance animals, and inform occupational therapy practice.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 142 |
| Number of pages | 1 |
| Journal | Australian Occupational Therapy Journal |
| Volume | 68 |
| Issue number | S1 |
| Publication status | Published - Jun 2021 |
| Event | Occupational Therapy Australia National Conference and Exhibition 2021 - Virtual, Australia Duration: 23 Jun 2021 → 25 Jun 2021 Conference number: 29th https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/toc/14401630/2021/68/S1 (link to Vol 68 S1 of the Australian Occupational Therapy Journal published abstracts from the conference) |