The Benefits of Equine-Assisted Activities: An Exploratory Study

This study explores the benefits of equine-assisted-activities (EAA) to adolescents with emotional, behavioural or learning difficulties, expanding on previous anecdotal evidence by employing quantitative measures and a control activity. Ten adolescent males and one adolescent female attended a racehorse rehabilitation centre, interacting with both live and model horses. Interaction frequency, self-report anxiety and self-esteem were measured. A significant reduction in trait anxiety was found over the course of the programme, however, no changes in self-esteem were reported. Such programmes could reduce anxiety in at risk populations. Further research could deconstruct the study and elucidate the relationships between EAA and psychological well-being.