Advantages of therapy animals
In a classroom setting
Physical Benefits |
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Social Benefits |
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Cognitive Benefits |
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Emotional/Mental health Benefits |
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“A recent national survey of adolescent mental health found that about 8 to 10 percent of teens ages 13 to 18 have an anxiety disorder.” (...)
What happens in our brain while interacting with therapy animals?
The main chemical that was found: oxytocin, a neuropeptide and dopamine. Oxytocin is a brain chemical long known to promote maternal care in mammals.
Oxytocin can: |
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The other chemical that was found were Beta endorphins which are natural painkillers associated with “runners high”
Dopamine can: |
Is known widely as the “reward” hormone.
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“A study by University of Missouri scientists also documented that petting dogs caused a spike in people’s serotonin, the neurotransmitter that most antidepressants attempt to elevate.”
(Boston globe)
Evidence: The science behind animal-assisted therapy Dawn A. Marcus. Published in 2013
What the study is about: |
Volunteers were asked to hold a tarantula for a study. The participants waited in an individual waiting room, half with an animal with them, and half without. |
Animals that were used: |
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Key information from the study:
“Research indicates that the use of animals provides ‘stress reducing or stress-buffering social supports’” which results in:
“Research indicates that the use of animals provides ‘stress reducing or stress-buffering social supports’” which results in:
- Lowered blood pressure
- Lowered anxiety
- Increased communication efforts.
To answer our driving question--> To what extent do therapy animals help with one's mental health?:
To a great extent therapy animals help with one's mental health by providing a healthy coping mechanism.
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