Equine-facilitated psychotherapy for at-risk adolescents: the influence on self-image, self-control and trust.

This research paper investigates the positive effects of equine-facilitated psychotherapy on self-image, self-control, trust, and overall life satisfaction in at-risk adolescents.

Study Objective and Methodology

• The main objective of the study was to understand the influence of equine-facilitated psychotherapy (EFP) on at-risk adolescents. EFP is a form of psychotherapy that incorporates horses into the therapeutic process. Animals, in particular, horses, are known to create a unique, non-judgmental environment that fosters empathy and trust in patients.
• The research was undertaken with participants at a residential treatment facility for at-risk adolescents and involved an investigation into how EFP could impact self-image, self-control, trust, and life satisfaction.
• The study compared outcomes of EFP in a treatment group consisting of 14 resident adolescents with a control group of 15 residents who did not receive EFP.
• The EFP therapy followed an individualized approach, where each adolescent received a weekly EFP session for a period of seven months.

Key Findings

• The results of the study indicated a favorable trend towards positive change in all four of the research parameters (self-image, self-control, trust, and life satisfaction) within the group of adolescents who received EFP.
• The benefits of the EFP intervention were not merely limited to these four parameters. Complementary indicators of the therapy’s positive influence were also identified, although the study does not expound on these additional benefits.

Conclusion

• The implications of the study suggest that EFP can be an effective therapeutic intervention for adolescents deemed ‘at-risk’ by promoting an enhanced sense of self-worth and control, fostering greater trust, and facilitating an improved sense of satisfaction in life.
• The study contributes to the growing body of research that supports the integration of EFP and similar animal-facilitated therapies in treatment plans for at-risk youth.