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Canine-Assisted Intervention Effects on the Well-Being of Health Science Graduate Students: A Randomized Controlled
Christine Kivlen1, Kristin Winston2, Dana Mills3
1Christine Kivlen, PhD, OTRL, is Assistant Professor, Occupational Therapy Program, Department of Health Care Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI; az5998@wayne.edu.
Summary
Canine-assisted interventions (CAI) significantly improved quality of life and reduced anxiety and stress in graduate students. This cost-effective approach offers a valuable tool for university mental health programs.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Animal-Assisted Interventions
- Student Mental Health
Background:
- Graduate students face a significant mental health crisis.
- Cost-effective interventions are needed to support student well-being.
- Canine-assisted interventions (CAI) show promise for mental health support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of a CAI on graduate student well-being.
- Assess changes in quality of life (QOL), stress, anxiety, and occupational performance.
- Determine the effectiveness of CAI for graduate student adjustment.
Main Methods:
- 104 graduate students were randomly assigned to a treatment (CAI) or control group.
- The treatment group received weekly 35-minute sessions with therapy dogs for 6 weeks.
- Outcomes included self-reported QOL, stress, anxiety, and occupational role.
Main Results:
- CAI participants reported significantly higher QOL (p < .001) and reduced anxiety (p < .045) compared to controls.
- Significant reductions in stress were observed within the CAI group (p < .000).
- No significant differences were found in occupational performance or role adjustment.
Conclusions:
- CAI is an effective intervention for enhancing graduate student well-being.
- CAI can positively impact mental health by reducing stress and anxiety.
- Findings support the integration of CAI into university mental health services.
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