Effectiveness of a Standardized Equine-Assisted Therapy Program for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Overview

Journal J Autism Dev Disord

Publisher Springer

Date 2015 Jul 27

PMID 26210515

Citations 51

Authors

Marta Borgi

Dafne Loliva

Stefania Cerino

Flavia Chiarotti

Aldina Venerosi

Maria Bramini

Enrico Nonnis

Marco Marcelli

Claudia Vinti

Chiara de Santis

Francesca Bisacco

Monica Fagerlie

Massimo Frascarelli

Francesca Cirulli

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

In this study the effectiveness of an equine-assisted therapy (EAT) in improving adaptive and executive functioning in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was examined (children attending EAT, n = 15, control group n = 13; inclusion criteria: IQ > 70). Therapeutic sessions consisted in structured activities involving horses and included both work on the ground and riding. Results indicate an improvement in social functioning in the group attending EAT (compared to the control group) and a milder effect on motor abilities. Improved executive functioning was also observed (i.e. reduced planning time in a problem-solving task) at the end of the EAT program. Our findings provide further support for the use of animal-assisted intervention programs as complementary intervention strategies for children with ASD.

Citing Articles

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Effectiveness of Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Update.

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