Thesis
Mapping the domains of human-animal interaction quality (QHAI)
Washington State University
Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
2019
Handle:
https://hdl.handle.net/2376/100389
Abstract
Animal assisted activities (AAAs) have become increasingly popular on college campuses in the United States in response to prevalent mental health issues. While initial studies suggest positive program outcomes for students, little is known about how, under what conditions, and for whom AAAs are an effective means of preventing mental health issues. In particular, little is known about program mediators and moderators, including the impact of the quality of interactions between humans and animals during these programs. This study uses a symbolic interactionist perspective to explore the role of interaction quality within a college-based, animal-assisted stress prevention program. A grounded theory approach was used to identify behaviors indicative of interaction quality between humans and animals during programming. Results include descriptions of behaviors within categories according to handler behavior (e.g., engagement, warmth), dog behavior (e.g., engagement, avoidance), student behavior (e.g., engagement with dog), dynamic interactions (e.g., handler-dog connection), and group behavior (e.g., dispersion). Results will provide a foundation to support further exploration and assessment of human-animal interaction quality and potential implications for AAAs.
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Details
- Title
- Mapping the domains of human-animal interaction quality (QHAI)
- Creators
- Stephanie Kuzara
- Contributors
- Patricia Pendry (Degree Supervisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Washington State University
- Academic Unit
- Human Development, Department of
- Theses and Dissertations
- Master of Science (MS), Washington State University
- Publisher
- Washington State University; [Pullman, Washington] :
- Identifiers
- 99900525300801842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Thesis