Animal therapy for children with autism spectrum: a view of parents

• DOI: 10.22533/at.ed.159322221128

• Palavras-chave: Child; Autistic Spectrum; Therapy.

• Keywords: Child; Autistic Spectrum; Therapy.

• Abstract:

  Objective: to know the perception of parents of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in relation to Animal Assisted Therapy. Method: qualitative, descriptive and exploratory research, carried out in an autistic care center in the south of the state of Rio Grande do Sul. The sample consisted of parents who agreed to participate and who were over 18 years old. The collection consisted of interviews made with open and recorded questions. The responses were transcribed in full into Microsoft Word software for analysis and interpretation individually. Results: therapy provided children with improvements in affective, cognitive, social interaction and communication aspects. Conclusion: it is necessary that more projects and actions include children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Parents reported that adopting pets increased the safety, autonomy, and responsibility of children with the Disorder.