Less Stress by owning a pet?
Pets are associated with various positive effects in context. According to a recent study, you can also reduce the Stress in families with autistic children. The acquisition of a pet can have for both the parents as well as for the children significant advantages.
In a study at the University of Missouri, it was found that benefit families with autistic children from owning a pet, because this contributes to a reduction in experienced Stress. The results were published in the English journal “Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders”.
More than 700 families were surveyed for the study
For the study, more than 700 families of the so-called Interactive Autism Network were interviewed, what are the benefits and burdens of living with a dog or a cat.
Families have developed strong ties to house animals
In spite of the increased responsibility for the care of Pets, develop children with autism and their parents, therefore, strong ties to the animals in your household. Overall, owning a pet was associated for you with more advantages than disadvantages.
Autism is a complicated disease
“In view of the fact that the characteristics of autism spectrum disorder are so varied it can be difficult to identify measures that can be helpful sind”, Gretchen Carlisle from the University of Missouri in a press release.
Among the Central challenges for kids with autism you are experiencing anxiety and difficulties in communication, the expert with safety. Dealing with Pets could cause the social interaction to be improved, and anxiety reduced.
Parents benefited from domestic animals
The researchers were able to determine that not only the children with autism of domestic animals benefit, but also their parents. For parents, the record consider a pet in your family, be advised, your child involved in the decision. In addition, it should be ensured that the need for Movement of the pet is covered and well with the child agrees.
What to consider when buying a pet, to
There are children with autism, which are particularly sensitive to certain factors, such as noise or loud noises. In the case of such children, it would make little sense to make a large and loud dog. If children have problems with their movement, or, for example, a sensory Overload is to be prevented, should be included not a particularly active dog in the family, but in such cases, it would probably be more appropriate, the acquisition of a cat, explain the researchers more.
Information to help in the decision
The researchers hope that through the provision of evidence-based information, parents easier to make informed choices for their family can meet, so that the correct pet is creates, which contributes to stronger bonds and less Stress for parents and their children with autism. (as)