Files
Download Full Text (984 KB)
Description
This research study will investigate the impact of animal-assisted interventions (AAI) on social interaction and communication skills of children or young adults formally diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and/or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) based on self or parent/caregiver report.
Children with ASD and ADHD experience deficits in communication and social participation that limit engagement in meaningful childhood occupations and peer relationships, highlighting the need for alternative, motivating intervention approaches. Animal-assisted interventions may provide a supportive and engaging environment that promotes emotional regulation, joint attention, and social reciprocity, and communication by enhancing participation in daily occupations.
The hypothesis for this study is that participation in a structured AAI program will result in improved social interaction and communication skills.
The study will use a qualitative research design. Parent/Caregiver interviews will be administered via microsoft teams platform. To assess caregivers' perceived report of changes in social participation and communication.
Publication Date
Summer 8-7-2026
Publisher
University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences
Keywords
AAI, ASD, ADHD, social interaction, communication, parent perceptions
Medical Subject Headings
Animals, child, Animal Assited Therapy, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity
Disciplines
Occupational Therapy
Recommended Citation
Morris, A. E., & Gutierrez, Z. (2026, August 7). Parents’ Perceptions of AAI’S Effect on Social Interaction & Communication for Individuals with ASD and/or ADHD. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonessummer2026/19
Comments
Poster presented at the OTD Capstone Symposium, held at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences.