Effects of Animal-Assisted Activities with Guinea Pigs in the Primary School Classroom

摘要: This study investigated the effects of a classroom-based animal-assisted activities (AAA) program with guinea pigs on social functioning primary school children. We hypothesized that participants in experimental condition (n = 64), compared waitlist control group would demonstrate improvements following program. Parents and teachers used Social Skills Rating System (SSRS) to evaluate skills problem behaviors 128 participating children (age range 4.8 12.7 years) before after an 8-week period. Teachers also rated academic competence at both time points. Children who participated AAA demonstrated significantly greater than their peers, as defined by increases (teacher SSRS) decreases (parent teacher SSRS). There were no significant differences between groups competence. from pre- post-program version SSRS. Control did not show changes these measures. These findings suggest may be feasible addition classroom order improve functioning. Further component analysis will necessary determine whether animal is active ingredient programs this nature.