Dell (Feb 27)

What was the primary purpose of the study by Dell et al. (2019)

To measure the objectives of a canine AAT program in a Canadian psychiatric prison and examine if it supported inmates' correctional plans. It was the first study of its kind in a Canadian psychiatric correctional facility.

What research design was used in the study?

A modified instrumental case study design. It involved three inmates over a 24-session program and used both quantitative (questionnaires) and qualitative (interviews) data.

What were the two measurable objectives of the RPC AAT program?

1. Whether inmates established a connection with a therapy dog.

2. Whether and how inmates' correctional plans were supported through that human-animal bond.

How did inmates experience the connection with the therapy dogs?

Through the animals' perceived offering of love, comfort, and support. Inmates felt "radical acceptance" and unconditional, non-judgmental support from the dogs.

How did the AAT program support inmates' correctional plans?

The human-animal bond increased inmates' recognition of their personal feelings and emotions. This supported their correctional plans, which were situated within a cognitive-behavioral skill development framework.

What specific emotional and behavioral changes were observed in participants?

Emotional: Reduced stress, agitation, sadness, and depression; increased positive affect (e.g., smiling more).

Behavioral: Increased compliance with unit rules and more open communication.

How did the focus of this Canadian study differ from many prison-based animal programs in the U.S.?

While many U.S. programs focus on animal training and community well-being, this study explicitly prioritized and measured inmate mental well-being and therapeutic goals

What were some key limitations of the study?

* Small sample size (n=3).

Selection bias (participants had to like dogs and be non-violent toward animals).

Lead researchers also served as the therapy dog handlers, introducing potential subjective bias