6 Powerful Benefits of Animal-Assisted Therapy for Trauma-Affected Children.
- FarmCharm
- May 28
- 4 min read
Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) has emerged as a valuable intervention for children who have experienced trauma, particularly those in foster care. By incorporating animals into therapeutic settings, AAT offers a unique approach to addressing complex emotional and behavioral challenges.
Understanding Animal-Assisted Therapy
Animal-assisted therapy involves the inclusion of trained animals in therapeutic processes to promote emotional, cognitive, and social well-being. Common therapy animals include dogs, horses, and small mammals, each offering distinct benefits. These animals are integrated into sessions led by qualified professionals to achieve specific therapeutic goals.
Benefits of Animal-Assisted Therapy for Traumatized Children
1. Reduction of Aggressive Behaviors
Children who have experienced trauma may exhibit aggressive behaviors as a response to perceived threats. Interactions with therapy animals can help mitigate these responses by providing a calming presence. The nonjudgmental nature of animals allows children to feel safe, reducing the likelihood of aggressive outbursts. (Crisis Text Line)
2. Decrease in Tantrums and Emotional Dysregulation
Therapy animals can assist children in managing overwhelming emotions. The presence of an animal can serve as a grounding mechanism, helping children to focus and regulate their emotional responses. This can lead to a decrease in tantrums and improved emotional control.
3. Mitigation of Fight-or-Flight Responses
Traumatized children often have heightened fight-or-flight responses. Engaging with therapy animals can help modulate these reactions by promoting relaxation and a sense of security. This interaction can aid in calming the nervous system and reducing hyperarousal.
4. Reduction in Self-Injurious Behaviors
Some children may engage in self-harm as a coping mechanism. Animal-assisted therapy provides alternative outlets for emotional expression and can reduce the incidence of self-injurious behaviors by fostering positive interactions and emotional support.
5. Enhancement of Self-Awareness and Emotional Insight
Interacting with therapy animals encourages children to develop greater self-awareness. Animals respond to human emotions and behaviors, providing immediate feedback that can help children recognize and understand their own emotional states.
6. Promotion of Calmness, Patience, and Self-Control
Caring for and interacting with therapy animals requires patience and self-control. These interactions can teach children important life skills, such as delayed gratification and empathy, which are essential for healthy social development.
Scientific Support for Animal-Assisted Therapy
Research supports the efficacy of animal-assisted therapy in addressing trauma-related symptoms in children. Studies have shown that AAT can lead to reductions in anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms, as well as improvements in social functioning and emotional regulation. (Nature)
Conclusion
Animal-assisted therapy offers a compassionate and effective approach to supporting children who have experienced trauma. By fostering emotional regulation, reducing maladaptive behaviors, and promoting positive social interactions, AAT serves as a valuable component of comprehensive trauma-informed care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of animals are commonly used in animal-assisted therapy?
Common therapy animals include dogs, horses, rabbits, and guinea pigs. The choice of animal depends on the therapeutic goals and the individual needs of the child.(verywellhealth.com)
Is animal-assisted therapy suitable for all children?
While many children benefit from AAT, it may not be appropriate for those with severe allergies, phobias, or a history of animal abuse. A thorough assessment by a qualified professional is necessary to determine suitability.
How long does it take to see results from animal-assisted therapy?
The timeline for observing benefits varies depending on the child's specific circumstances and the frequency of therapy sessions. Some children may show improvements within a few sessions, while others may require longer-term engagement.
Can animal-assisted therapy be integrated with other therapeutic approaches?
Yes, AAT is often used in conjunction with other therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or trust-based relational interventions, to enhance overall treatment outcomes.
Are therapy animals specially trained?
Yes, therapy animals undergo specialized training to ensure they can safely and effectively interact with individuals in therapeutic settings. They are also regularly assessed to maintain their suitability for therapy work.
How can I find a qualified animal-assisted therapy program?
To locate a reputable AAT program, consult with mental health professionals, pediatricians, or local therapy centers. Organizations such as Pet Partners and the American Hippotherapy Association provide directories of certified programs and practitioners.(Pet Partners)
Sources:
Fine, A. H. (Ed.). (2019). Handbook on Animal-Assisted Therapy: Foundations and Guidelines for Animal-Assisted Interventions. Academic Press.
Chandler, C. K. (2017). Animal-Assisted Therapy in Counseling. Routledge.
Beetz, A., Uvnäs-Moberg, K., Julius, H., & Kotrschal, K. (2012). Psychosocial and psychophysiological effects of human-animal interactions: The possible role of oxytocin. Frontiers in Psychology, 3, 234. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2012.00234
Nimer, J., & Lundahl, B. (2007). Animal-assisted therapy: A meta-analysis. Anthrozoös, 20(3), 225–238. https://doi.org/10.2752/089279307X224773
Stewart, L. A., Dispenza, F., Parker, L., Chang, C. Y., & Cunnien, T. (2014). Assessing the Relationship Between Animal-Assisted Therapy and Adult Mental Health. Journal of Creativity in Mental Health, 9(2), 225–239. https://doi.org/10.1080/15401383.2014.890577
McCullough, A., Ruehrdanz, A., Jenkins, M. A., et al. (2018). Evaluating the impact of animal-assisted therapy on youth who have experienced trauma. Children and Youth Services Review, 95, 388–395. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2018.10.002
Kruger, K. A., & Serpell, J. A. (2010). Animal-assisted interventions in mental health: Definitions and theoretical foundations. In A. H. Fine (Ed.), Handbook on Animal-Assisted Therapy (pp. 33–48). Academic Press.
If you've been moved by the powerful benefits of animal-assisted therapy, consider making a meaningful impact by supporting our farm. As foster parents, we've seen firsthand how interacting with animals can calm trauma, reduce aggression, and bring healing to children who’ve experienced unimaginable hardships. Your donation helps us care for our therapy animals and expand access to this life-changing support for more families in need. Every contribution—big or small—brings hope, healing, and a brighter future to children who deserve it. Help us continue this mission of love and restoration by donating today.
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