Pawsitive Purpose: The Impact Of Autism Assistance Dogs on the Occupations of Autistic Children.

Background. The World Health Organization recognizes that participation is important to individuals’ well being; yet, autistic children participate in fewer activities compared to neurotypical children. This article aims to describe the role of autism assistance dogs (AADs) in promoting participation and engagement in occupations and activities of daily living (ADLs) for autistic children. Method. A qualitative interpretative phenomenological design was used. Two semi-structured interviews from a narrative perspective were conducted with each participant. Four volunteer parents and primary handlers of their child’s AAD participated in the study. Inductive analysis was used to interpret openended questions. Following transcription, Creswell’s thematic analysis was used to develop codes and theoretical perspectives to better understand the lived experience of AAD users. Results. The single overarching theme identified in this study was: The Multi-Factored Role of Autism Assistance Dogs. Conclusion. AADs are a valuable, alternative form of adaptive equipment for autistic children that can serve a broad purpose in increasing participation in daily life. This area of practice is an appropriate location for occupational therapists to concentrate interventions when working with families with autistic children. This is a novel research topic that is important and deserves further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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