Nature and Animal-assisted Activities

Launched by KRONOBERG COUNTY COUNCIL · May 24, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at how nature and animal-assisted activities can help young adults with neuropsychiatric conditions, like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Many young adults with these challenges often feel socially isolated and may struggle to get support from healthcare services. The trial aims to see if participating in group activities on a farm, which involve spending time with animals and nature, can improve their daily lives and social interactions.

To be eligible for this trial, participants should be between 18 and 30 years old, have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder, and have not been employed or in school for the past year. They should also be receiving social insurance benefits and have an interest in being around animals. The activities will take place twice a week for 12 weeks, and participants will share their experiences in interviews before, after, and one year later. This will help researchers understand the impact of these activities on their lives over time. Importantly, the study is currently active but not recruiting new participants.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 18-30 years
• • Autism Spectrum Disorder
• • No occupation/employment/education over the last year
• • Social insurance benefits
• • Interest in being with animals
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Ongoing active drug abuse
• • Severe psychiatric comorbidity