A Survey of Factors That Influence Affinity With Dogs for People With Autism

ABSTRACT

Affinity with dogs has been defined as the degree to which people value interactions with dogs; it may be influenced by individual preferences, experiences with animals, and characteristics of the dog. To date, however, there has been limited investigation regarding factors that influence dog affinity for people with autism. An anonymous online survey was used in this study; it included demographic questions; exploration of experiences with animals; attitudes, preferences, likes, and dislikes of dogs; and the perceived impact of dogs on the person with autism’s social and community participation. The survey was distributed via social media channels, assistance dog organizations, and a disability provider to people living in Australia (n = 131) who were (1) an adult with a diagnosis of autism or (2) a next-of-kin of a person of any age with autism (completing the survey on behalf of their family member). Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and content analysis. There were no significant differences in levels of affinity between children and adults with autism. However, findings indicated significant differences in levels of affinity between participants with and without a dog. Text entry responses to questions provided additional insights into participants’ attitudes and sensory preferences toward dogs, suggesting that affinity with dogs can be influenced by personal, disability-related, environmental, and animal-related factors. An awareness and consideration of these factors is essential for individuals with autism, their families, and service providers – including animal-assisted therapy or assistance animal organizations – when considering individual participation goals and determining if animal supports are the most appropriate option. Without an awareness and understanding of these factors, this could limit the effectiveness of the human–animal interaction.

KEYWORDS:

• Affinity
• autism
• dogs
• human–animal bond
• human–animal interaction

Acknowledgements

Thanks are extended to the people with autism and their next of kin for their involvement in this research. The authors also acknowledge the assistance animal organization that identified and proposed the need for this research, and staff from these organizations who drew on their lived and practice experience to provide input to the design of survey questions.

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes

1 The Australian Federation of Disability Organisations’ (AFDO) language guide, which encourages the use of person-first language, has been followed in this manuscript; however, the authors acknowledge some people may preference “identity-first” language and respect individual choice of language that a person uses about themselves.