Animal-Assisted Therapy and Developmental Disorders

For the last few years, neurosciences has been focusing its research on analysing the structures and processes behind Animal-Assisted Therapies (AAT) and their effects on persons with neurodevelopmental disorders. The aim of this study is to present an overview of the main evidence-based effects of AAT in the promotion of skills, health-related issues, and well-being of persons with neurodevelopmental disorders. For this matter, the main theories of AAT effects will be approached. In conclusion, animal-human interaction characteristics and how this relationship may compensate deficits and promote functional competences will be described.

Keywords: Animal-assisted therapy, Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder, Autism, Developmental disorders, Health, Learning disability, Well-being.