Using dogs to help children with autism manage their emotions
Evaluating additive effects of including canines in Regulating Together: A Group Treatment to Address Emotion Dysregulation in youth with autism spectrum disorder
This study is looking at how having dogs in a group therapy program can help kids with autism learn to manage their emotions better, making it a fun and supportive way for them to feel happier and more in control.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10908381 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how including dogs in a group treatment program can enhance emotional regulation in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The program, called Regulating Together, combines behavioral therapy techniques with animal-assisted interventions to help children better manage their emotions. By participating in this program, children will engage in activities that involve both therapy and interaction with dogs, aiming to improve their emotional responses and overall quality of life. The study will assess the effectiveness of this combined approach over a period of time.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder who experience difficulties with emotional regulation.
Not a fit: Children who do not have autism spectrum disorder or those outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved emotional regulation and quality of life for children with autism.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that animal-assisted interventions can be beneficial for children with autism, indicating potential for success in this combined approach.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shaffer, Rebecca — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Shaffer, Rebecca
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.