Journal article
Changing with the times: A qualitative content analysis of perceptions toward the study and practice of human–animal interactions
The Humanistic psychologist, Vol.51(2), pp.150-159
2023
DOI: 10.1037/hum0000251
Abstract
Human–animal interaction (HAI) studies have grown exponentially, most especially in recent decades. HAI makes up a diversity of professions. As the field continues to establish direction and identity, it is critical to assess members’ perspectives across professions regarding needs and limitations so that we might make informed decisions collectively. It is also important to document the history, changing attitudes, and developing identities representing the multidisciplinary nature of HAI. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the perspectives of various stakeholder groups involved in the HAI field. To accomplish this aim, we performed a qualitative content analysis to investigate three open-ended questions from an online survey conducted for the Human–Animal Interaction Section 13 of Division 17 of the American Psychological Association. Survey respondents were asked to comment on (a) perceived areas of critical need within the HAI field regarding both research and practice, (b) significant changes in the HAI field within the past 5 years, and (c) significant changes they anticipate taking place over the next 5 years. A total of 291 respondent comments were extracted and analyzed from the three questions. Results suggest emerging themes centered on public awareness and acceptance of the multifaceted roles of other species in the lives of humans, animal welfare considerations, increasing research rigor, and growing professionalism in the field of animal-assisted interventions. Based on our findings, we suggest possible next steps for the field of HAI.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- Changing with the times: A qualitative content analysis of perceptions toward the study and practice of human–animal interactions
- Creators
- Melissa Trevathan-Minnis - Goddard CollegeKaty SchroederEmily Eccles - Fielding Graduate University
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Publication Details
- The Humanistic psychologist, Vol.51(2), pp.150-159
- DOI
- 10.1037/hum0000251
- ISSN
- 0887-3267
- eISSN
- 1547-3333
- Language
- English
- Electronic publication date
- 08/26/2021
- Date published
- 2023
- Academic Unit
- Counselor Education
- Record Identifier
- 9984399260302771
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