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Essay / Dog and Animal Assisted Therapy - 1285
The use of dogs to assist in the treatment of physically and sexually abused children is an effective tool in the treatment and healing process. Animal-assisted therapy, which includes the dog in the actual therapeutic process, allows the child to view the dog as a role model and comfort. The dog is a non-judgmental entity, which increases the level of self-esteem that the child internalizes and stimulates the communication of his feelings. Geral P. Mallon (1994) states that there are numerous reports in the literature that illustrate the value of human contact with animals. Studies have indicated that animals such as dogs play an important role in not only socializing but also humanizing children. Dogs, in particular, due to their interactive and affectionate nature, have become increasingly effective in complementary therapeutic contexts with children and young people. Piaget (1929) revealed in his research a stage in child development where it is intrinsically natural for a child to attribute human characteristics to an animal. Cartoons, fairy tales, and mythology designed for children often depict animals as playing important roles in human interaction. It even happens that children project their inner feelings onto an animal that they perceive as loving. These animals also do not talk back or argue, which provides the ongoing degree of non-judgmental interaction essential to a child's recovery process. Dogs play a key role in therapy for abused children, but animal-assisted therapy remains a complementary treatment. Elisabeth Reichert (1998) states that animal-assisted therapy must be used in conjunction with other therapies and cannot stand alone. This study will focus on relationships with dogs in the treatment of physical and sexual abuse... middle of article...... dog-assisted intervention is still unknown. Other differential effects of human interaction with dogs and their clinical study situations have not yet expanded the scope of potential research. There is a need for better designed experimental parameters and a reliability equation must be documented to determine the extent of patient benefit (Johnson et. al., 2002). Dogs as a bridge between psychotherapist and child require further research to drive the current findings. and urge comparison of improvements in psychological distress among children and adolescents who experience physical and sexual violence. Results from further studies may prove beneficial in facilitating stronger educational experiences in children as well as promoting enriching experiences in society. New methods of dog- and animal-assisted therapy could prove to be positive potential therapies for children.