Potential effects of SPAN for adolescents with social anxiety incorporating pet dogs
Authors:
Zachary Gould, OT, OTD, MS, Gary Bedell, PhD, OT, Emily Machado OT, OTD, Nicole Porter, OT, OTD, & Megan Mueller, PhD
Abstract:
This poster will present results of a 4-week virtual coaching program incorporating pet dogs for promoting social participation in 8 adolescents with social anxiety. This program combines pet-assisted intervention with 4 virtual coaching sessions to develop person-centered, social participation goals. All participants developed at least one goal and most (7/8) achieved their goal during the program. Results indicate positive effects on self-rated confidence across social participation domains and goal planning, self-regulation and reciprocal communication skills.
Key Words:
social anxiety, virtual coaching, goal setting