Animal-assisted therapy in patients affected by schizophrenia and schizophrenic-related disorders: A scoping review
Introduction: Schizophrenia poses significant challenges in psychiatric care. Amidst established practices such as pharmacological therapy and psychotherapy, Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is gaining attention as a potential approach to enhance the psychophysical well-being of patients with schizophr...
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| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
International Network for the Advancement of Medicine, Psychology, and Public Health (INAMPPH)
2024-04-01
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| Series: | Advances in Medicine, Psychology, and Public Health |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://ampphealthjournal-network.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/AMPHH_2024_-53_61.pdf |
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| Summary: | Introduction: Schizophrenia poses significant challenges in psychiatric care. Amidst established practices such as pharmacological therapy and psychotherapy, Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is gaining attention as a potential approach to enhance the psychophysical well-being of patients with schizophrenia. This scoping review aims to map the existing literature on the impact of AAT on schizophrenia, focusing on changes in symptoms and overall well-being of affected individuals and identifying potential areas for intervention and future research.
Methods: A systematic search was conducted from August to September 2023 using a scoping review methodology. The review encompassed international biomedical databases, including PubMed, Cinahl, PsycINFO, and Embase, and incorporated additional resources such as relevant textbooks and gray literature.
Results: The review highlights AAT as a promising co-therapeutic approach, demonstrating benefits across physical, mental, emotional, and social dimensions in schizophrenia patients.
It is particularly noted for its potential in alleviating the disorder's negative symptoms.
Discussion and Conclusions: The findings of this scoping review suggest that AAT could play a significant role in treating and managing schizophrenia, enhancing patient well-being and treatment adherence. However, the review also reveals gaps in current research and emphasizes the need for further studies to establish a more robust evidence base. This would aid
in better understanding the efficacy of AAT and in integrating it effectively into mental health care practices for schizophrenia |
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| ISSN: | 3034-8803 |