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OTJR : occupation, participation and health2024; 46(1); 23-32; doi: 10.1177/15394492241307843

Emotional and Motor Improvements in Children With ADHD Following Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy.

Abstract: Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, as children may present developmental and chronic impairments in cognitive-emotional and sensory-motor aspects. This study examined the changes in self-efficacy, muscle tone, and mood following a single session of Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy (EAOT) within Attention Skills Therapy (ASTride) intervention, designed to improve emotional and cognitive functions. Notably, 31 children diagnosed with ADHD aged 6-12 (mean age 10.06) years. A preliminary study of pre- and post-single 45-min session was performed, using the New General Self-efficacy Scale (NGSE), the Moos Scale Questionnaire (MSQ), and the prone extension test. A significant improvement in self-efficacy and in positive mood, and a decrease in negative mood were found, along with a significant improvement in core muscles. This study provides preliminary evidence supporting the effectiveness of EAOT for children with ADHD regarding emotional and sensory-motor (vestibular) functions. Children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often struggle with emotional and motor challenges, including difficulties with regulating their mood and maintaining motor control. Traditional treatments such as medication and therapy focus on cognitive and emotional skills, but there is increasing interest in complementary interventions that can address both physical and emotional aspects simultaneously. One such approach is Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy (EAOT), which involves working with horses to promote emotional regulation, motor coordination, and overall well-being. This study explores the effects of a single session of EAOT, using the ASTride protocol, on children with ADHD. The ASTride intervention combines sensory, cognitive, and emotional elements, using horse care, riding exercises, and reflective activities to improve attention, mood, and self-regulation. The session involves structured activities, such as preparing the horse, riding, and practicing motor skills, all while being guided by an occupational therapist and a certified riding instructor. Results showed that after just one session, children demonstrated significant improvements in mood, including increased feelings of calm, self-efficacy, and control. They also showed enhanced motor skills, as reflected in their ability to maintain posture and balance during the riding exercises. These improvements suggest that EAOT could be a valuable addition to traditional ADHD treatments, offering both emotional and motor benefits. Although the study was preliminary and involved a small number of participants, it highlights the potential of EAOT as a promising intervention for children with ADHD. Future research is needed to confirm these findings and explore the long-term effects of this approach.
Publication Date: 2024-12-24 PubMed ID: 39716988PubMed Central: PMC12640361DOI: 10.1177/15394492241307843Google Scholar: Lookup
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  • Journal Article

Summary

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Overview

  • This study investigated how a single session of Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy (EAOT) affects emotional well-being and motor skills in children with ADHD.
  • Results showed improvements in self-confidence, mood, and core muscle strength after the therapy session, suggesting EAOT may support emotional and motor functions in children with ADHD.

Background and Purpose

  • ADHD is characterized by symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, often accompanied by challenges in emotional regulation and motor control.
  • Traditional treatments primarily focus on cognitive and emotional aspects but may not fully address sensory-motor difficulties.
  • Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy (EAOT) involves interacting with horses as a means to promote emotional regulation, motor coordination, and overall well-being.
  • The research aimed to assess whether a single EAOT session within the ASTride intervention could improve mood, self-efficacy, and muscle tone in children with ADHD.

Methods

  • Participants: 31 children diagnosed with ADHD, aged 6 to 12 years (average age 10.06).
  • Intervention: One 45-minute EAOT session using the ASTride protocol, which integrates sensory, cognitive, and emotional activities such as horse care, riding exercises, and reflective tasks.
  • Measures used:
    • New General Self-Efficacy Scale (NGSE) to assess confidence and perceived control.
    • Moos Scale Questionnaire (MSQ) to evaluate changes in mood.
    • Prone extension test to measure improvements in core muscle strength and tone.
  • Study design involved pre-session and post-session assessments to detect immediate changes.

Results

  • Significant increase in self-efficacy scores, indicating children felt more capable and in control.
  • Positive mood improved, with participants showing enhanced feelings of calmness and emotional regulation.
  • Negative mood indicators decreased, suggesting reduced emotional distress.
  • Core muscle strength and tone improved, as evidenced by better performance on the prone extension test.
  • Improvements reflect both emotional benefits and sensory-motor (vestibular and postural) gains following a single session.

Discussion and Implications

  • EAOT, through the ASTride approach, potentially addresses the intertwined emotional and motor difficulties experienced by children with ADHD.
  • Engagement with horses involves physical activity, sensory input, and emotional interaction, which collectively support attention, mood regulation, and motor skills.
  • These preliminary findings indicate EAOT could complement traditional ADHD therapies by providing holistic benefits.
  • The single-session design highlights immediate effects but does not inform on long-term outcomes; further larger studies are needed.

Limitations and Future Directions

  • The study sample size was relatively small, limiting generalizability.
  • Only immediate post-session effects were measured; repeated sessions and follow-up assessments would clarify sustained impacts.
  • Future research should explore a controlled trial design with larger cohorts and evaluate long-term emotional and motor improvements.
  • Additional measures could further elucidate cognitive improvements and functional benefits in daily life.

Conclusion

  • A single session of Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy may lead to meaningful improvements in self-efficacy, mood, and motor control in children with ADHD.
  • This therapeutic approach shows promise as an adjunct to traditional interventions, supporting both emotional and sensory-motor development.
  • Further research is warranted to confirm findings and optimize EAOT protocols for broader clinical application.

Cite This Article

APA
Helmer A, Delore E, Bart O. (2024). Emotional and Motor Improvements in Children With ADHD Following Equine-Assisted Occupational Therapy. OTJR (Thorofare N J), 46(1), 23-32. https://doi.org/10.1177/15394492241307843

Publication

ISSN: 1938-2383
NlmUniqueID: 101144015
Country: United States
Language: English
Volume: 46
Issue: 1
Pages: 23-32

Researcher Affiliations

Helmer, Anne
  • Tel Aviv University, Israel.
  • Judea Mountains Stables, Israel.
Delore, Elaina
  • Tel Aviv University, Israel.
  • Elwyn, Israel.
Bart, Orit
  • Tel Aviv University, Israel.

MeSH Terms

  • Child
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / therapy
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / psychology
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / rehabilitation
  • Humans
  • Equine-Assisted Therapy / methods
  • Male
  • Female
  • Self Efficacy
  • Animals
  • Occupational Therapy / methods
  • Affect
  • Muscle Tonus
  • Emotions
  • Horses
  • Surveys and Questionnaires

Conflict of Interest Statement

Declaration of Conflicting InterestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

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