Abstract
This study explores the benefits of equine-assisted-activities (EAA) to adolescents with emotional, behavioural or learning difficulties, expanding on previous anecdotal evidence by employing quantitative measures and a control activity. Ten adolescent males and one adolescent female attended a racehorse rehabilitation centre, interacting with both live and model horses. Interaction frequency, self-report anxiety and self-esteem were measured. A significant reduction in trait anxiety was found over the course of the programme, however, no changes in self-esteem were reported. Such programmes could reduce anxiety in at risk populations. Further research could deconstruct the study and elucidate the relationships between EAA and psychological well-being.
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Acknowledgments
I would like to thank all those at Greatwood Caring for Retired Racehorses, extending special thanks to Laura Jones, without whom, this project would not have been possible.
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Holmes, C.M.P., Goodwin, D., Redhead, E.S. et al. The Benefits of Equine-Assisted Activities: An Exploratory Study. Child Adolesc Soc Work J 29, 111–122 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10560-011-0251-z
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10560-011-0251-z