SHAREIntroducing a pet into the family can have numerous positive effects on a child with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), including promoting emotional regulation, teaching responsibility, encouraging physical activity and fostering social skills development.
A study published in the Journal of Attention Disorders found that children with ADHD who participated in a 12-week programme involving a pet experienced improved attention and focus compared to those who did not have a pet. The presence of a pet provided a source of companionship and stimulation, which helped children stay engaged and focused on tasks.
Research has also shown that interacting with pets can reduce stress and anxiety levels in both children and adults. For children with ADHD, who often experience heightened levels of stress and anxiety, having a pet can provide a calming influence and serve as a source of emotional support.
Pets, especially dogs, require regular exercise, such as walking and playing. Engaging in physical activity with a pet can help children with ADHD expend excess energy in a constructive manner, reducing hyperactivity and promoting better self-regulation.
Caring for a pet can teach children important social skills, such as empathy, responsibility, and communication. Children with ADHD may struggle with social interactions, but the bond formed with a pet can serve as a safe and nonjudgmental relationship, fostering emotional development and interpersonal connections.
The unconditional love and acceptance provided by a pet can boost a child’s confidence and sense of self-worth, which is particularly beneficial for children with ADHD who may face challenges in academic and social settings.
Additional ways in which having a pet can benefit children with ADHD, include:
1. Companionship and emotional support: Pets, particularly dogs, offer unconditional love and companionship, which can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and provide emotional support to children with ADHD.
2. Therapeutic benefits: Some studies suggest that interactions with animals can have therapeutic benefits for children with ADHD, such as reducing aggression and improving mood. Dogs can sense changes in mood and will often go towards a person who may be feeling sad or anxious.
3. Routine and responsibility: Caring for a pet, such as feeding and grooming can instil a sense of routine and responsibility in children with ADHD. Establishing and maintaining such a routine can be particularly beneficial for managing symptoms of ADHD, as it provides structure and consistency.
4. Physical activity: Dogs, in particular, require regular exercise, such as walking and playing fetch. Engaging in physical activity with a pet can help ADHD children burn off excess energy and improve focus and concentration afterward. Regular exercise has been shown to have positive effects on ADHD symptoms, including reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity.
5. Teaching empathy and compassion: Caring for a pet teaches children empathy, compassion and nurturing skills. These qualities are important for developing healthy relationships with others and can be particularly beneficial for children with ADHD who may struggle with impulse control and social interactions.
The suitability of a pet for a child with ADHD depends on various factors, including the child’s personality, preferences, the family’s lifestyle, and the level of commitment they can provide to pet care. It’s important to research different pet species and breeds, consider factors like space and time constraints, and choose a pet that will be a good fit for the child and the family as a whole. Additionally, proper supervision and guidance from parents or caregivers are essential to ensure the safety and well-being of both the child and the pet.
It’s important to note that while pets can provide numerous benefits for children with ADHD, they are not a replacement for professional treatment or therapy, but rather as part of a holistic treatment plan.
References
- Arlene, D. (2023). 12 Best Dog Breeds for Someone with ADHD. I Heart Dogs [Online]. Accessed on 1 March 2024.
- Coetzer, L. (2023). Unleashing the Healing Power of Pets: Embracing Pawsitive Therapy. The South African College of Applied Psychology [Online]. Accessed on 1 March 2024.
- Fostering people. (2022). 13 reasons why dogs are good for children with ADHD & Autism. Fostering People [Online]. Accessed on 1 March 2024.
- Marais, S.D. (2022). How Can a Service Dog Help with ADHD?. Psych Central [Online]. Accessed on 11 March 2024.
- S. E., Emmerson, N. A., Fine, A. H., & Lakes, K. D. (2015). Canine-assisted therapy for children with ADHD: preliminary findings from the positive assertive cooperative kids study.Journal of attention disorders, 19(2), 125–137.
