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Human–Animal Interaction Analysis

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Animal-Assisted Intervention

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Abstract

At some level, animal-assisted intervention (AAI) involves humans interacting with animals. However, it is unknown which kinds of interactions occur between humans and animals during interventions and which interactions, if any, elicit specific outcomes. Human–animal interaction (HAI) is studied as a construct affecting human health and well-being, without a clear understanding of its critical components. This chapter argues for analysis of HAI as a process variable in AAI. The Human–Animal Interaction Scale (HAIS) is introduced as a way of gathering behavioral interaction data to study intervention processes. Following a discussion of instrument development and validation, research is reviewed to demonstrate HAI analysis.

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Notes

  1. 1.

    A copy of the HAIS is provided in Appendix A.

  2. 2.

    During the unstructured interaction, researchers observed from outside the room via a one-way mirrored window and intercom and were trained to interrupt at any signs of harm or distress to the humans or animals.

  3. 3.

    Sessions within this model are facilitated by a licensed mental health professional and equine specialist, are ground-based (no riding), are solution-oriented, and follow the Eagala code of ethics.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Psychology, Bemidji State University, Bemidji, MN, USA

    Angela K. Fournier

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  1. Angela K. Fournier
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Correspondence to Angela K. Fournier .

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Fournier, A.K. (2019). Human–Animal Interaction Analysis. In: Animal-Assisted Intervention. Palgrave Pivot, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-32972-3_2

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