Using horses in therapy to help children with autism manage their emotions
Preliminary efficacy of occupational therapy integrating horses on self-regulation in youth with autism spectrum disorder
This study is exploring how spending time with horses during therapy can help kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder learn to manage their emotions and behaviors better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Collins, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10708039 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how integrating horses into occupational therapy can improve self-regulation in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The study aims to understand the effectiveness of this approach, as many children with ASD struggle with managing their emotions and behaviors. By providing a structured intervention that includes interactions with horses, the research seeks to gather empirical evidence on its benefits. The ultimate goal is to establish this method as a recognized practice in occupational therapy for youth with ASD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-21 diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder who experience difficulties with self-regulation.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have Autism Spectrum Disorder or those outside the age range of 0-21 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved emotional regulation and behavior management for children with autism.
How similar studies have performed: While there is growing evidence supporting animal-assisted therapies, this specific integration of horses into occupational therapy for ASD is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Fort Collins, United States
- Colorado State University — Fort Collins, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Peters, Brittany Caitlin — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Peters, Brittany Caitlin
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.