Human-Animal-Environment Interactions as a Context for Child and Adolescent Growth

• Main Authors: Erin Flynn, Alexandra G. Zoller, Megan K. Mueller, Kevin N. Morris
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: University Library System, University of Pittsburgh 2019-12-01
• Series: Journal of Youth Development
• Subjects: youth development; nature-based interventions; social emotional learning; human-animal-environment interactions; human-animal bond
• Online Access: http://jyd.pitt.edu/ojs/jyd/article/view/839

Human-animal-environment interaction (HAEI) is increasingly used in special education. While most research of HAEIs has identified effects that broadly support positive special education outcomes, further research of HAEI-based interventions in these environments is needed. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 teaching staff at a special education school that utilizes a range of HAEIs. The teachers are responsible for implementing evidence-based interventions to facilitate social-emotional learning (SEL), so assessing their unique perspectives on the impacts of HAEIs on student SEL outcomes is imperative. Phenomenological coding of the interviews identified 9 major themes that represented positive impacts as well as barriers and challenges experienced by students during HAEIs.