A Qualitative and Quantitative Review of Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP) with Children and Adolescents

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive review of the literature on Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP) with children and adolescents. Methods used in EFP, including traditional mounted, vaulting, husbandry, and unmounted activities are described. The theory and background of EFP is summarized with references to various psychotherapeutic perspectives, such as Freudian, Jungian, cognitive, behaviorist, and psychodynamic models. The status of the research is discussed, and available empirical studies and reports on this topic are summarized. Possible applications to patients with eating disorders, anxiety, trauma history, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, and delinquency are described. Recommendations are made regarding the direction of future research on EFP.

Examining the Literature on the Efficacy of Equine Assisted Therapy for People with Mental Health and Behavioural Disorders

“…While the reviewed literature is fascinating and has revealed positive results in EAT on mental health and behavioural problems, research studies that are more comprehensive are required, especially in the UK before claims could be made for its evidence-based value. Empirical studies, such as biofeedback tests to measure heart rate variability, skin conductance level and brain wave activity and blood samples measuring neurotransmitter uptake could significantly enhance research outcomes (Lentini and Knox 2008). Ways of measuring the benefits and controlling other contributory factors could also be refined for future research to help, for example, identify whether the changed environment alone would provide the same results as Trotter et al (2008) have suggested (Bexson 2008).…”

Application of Attachement Theory to Equine-Facilitated Therapy

“…While this growth is exciting, it is expanding faster than the research base, further jeopardizing the legitimization of EFT as a clinical practice. The growing popularity of EFT programs in spite of lack of empirical evidence accentuates the need for developing valid and reliable studies to explore the benefits of EFT in social work practice (Lentini & Knox, 2009;Trotter, 2001). The use of attachment theory as the base for EFT can facilitate the development of rigorous, scientifically valid and reliable studies that can operationalize the theory and capture empirical data.…”

“…Taking an alternative stance while still advocating for future research, Lentini and Knox (2009) propose that EFT should be limited to clients who are not reached by conventional methods (2009). This proposition is logical, supports EFT as a complementary therapy, and in alignment with the definition of AAT.…”

Correction Of Parent-Child Relationship Through Equine Assisted Learning «Control And Trust»

“…The effectiveness of horse therapies was experimentally established in disorders with depressive symptoms, autism, in rehabilitation after treatment of abuse syndromes, and in the treatment of anxiety and phobic disorders (Cantin & Marshall-Lucette, 2011;Kemp et al, 2014;Kern-Godal & Arnevik, 2016;Lac, 2016;Lentini & Knox, 2009;Ratliffe & Sanekane, 2009;Scheidhacker et al, 2002;Signal et al, 2013). Therapy with horses is also effective for the development of confidence, psychological wellbeing in children and adults from "risk groups" (Bachi et al, 2012;Chardonnens, 2009;Trotter et al, 2008).…”

“…A unique experience of interaction with a large animal helps people to overcome fear, to develop empathy, and to develop self-confidence, which allows to create harmonious relations with other people (Ratliffe & Sanekane, 2009). The size of the horse makes a special impression on the person, which represents an opportunity to investigate the personality problems associated with vulnerability, strength, and control (Lentini & Knox, 2009). Being in relationships with horses can provide self-reflection, and can offer powerful healing to relationships.…”