Service dogs for autistic children and family system functioning: a constant comparative analysis

Abstract

IntroductionService dog placements for autistic children are growing in popularity, yet findings to date are mixed. Moreover, no study to date has examined these placements through the lens of a recognized theoretical model. The purpose of this study is twofold: to explore experiences reported by caretakers of autistic children involved in a service dog program, and to contextualize findings within an established theoretical framework.MethodsA total of n = 50 caretakers of autistic children (n = 38 with and n = 12 without a service dog) were recruited through the national non-profit service dog provider Canine Companions. Participants completed an online survey through Qualtrics which asked open-ended questions about their experiences, both negative and positive.ResultsConstant comparative analysis identified two high level themes, nested within a family systems approach framework: (1) Enhancing social functioning of the family system unit and (2) Fostering stability and strength within family system subunits. These themes interacted holistically to foster and reinforce family system resilience. Placements led to greater social inclusion for children and their families, acted as a highly individualized intervention, and decreased experiences of judgement and stigma. Perceived as members of the family, service dogs may coregulate with the autistic child and family members and can be a source of joyful connection within the family.DiscussionResults highlighted the service dog’s influence on the entire family (beyond the autistic child). Implications for service dog organizations suggest it may be helpful to account for family-wide impacts throughout the placement process. High standards on the part of provider organizations may minimize negatives, optimizing outcomes for both humans and canines. Ultimately, findings enrich our understanding of service dog interventions for autistic children.

Effects of service dogs on children with ASD’s symptoms and parents’ well-being: On the importance of considering those effects with a more systemic perspective

“…Taking into account the whole family system seems even more pertinent when one considers that having a pet in NT families can increase family adaptability and cohesion [ 108 ]. In a recent qualitative study of families of children with ASD with SDs, Leighton and collaborators [ 109 ] demonstrated that the presence of a SD contributes to strengthening and stabilizing the family unit, and improves the social functioning of the family unit (i.e., the interaction of the family with external systems such as other families, communities, schools, etc.). Thus, in order to further our understanding of the effects of SD integration on the family system, it would be of great interest to conduct studies that examine its effects from the family micro-system (i.e., family unit) to the family meso-system (i.e., peers, friends, school, community, etc.).…”

Animal-assisted therapy in pediatric autism spectrum disorder

“…Currently, canines trained in ASD tasks are the third most requested service animals; however, many families cannot aff ord to purchase and properly care for a service canine for their child. 1 Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) can be a solution for those families. AAT requires strategic planning by the clinician to incorporate deliberate interventions into the child's care through direct and purposeful interaction with an animal in support of established therapy goals.…”