Horse Play: A Brief Psychological Intervention for Disengaged Youths |
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Authors: | Elizabeth Kendall Annick Maujean |
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Affiliation: | Griffith University, Meadowbrook, Queensland, Australia |
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Abstract: | This pilot study examined a brief psychological intervention delivered to a group of disengaged youths (n = 16) using horse-related activities to improve their levels of self-esteem and self-efficacy. The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and the General Self-Efficacy Scale were administered (preintervention and postintervention). Participants’ case managers also completed a survey to assess their perception of the young people’s behaviors and attitudes to life. Participants showed a significant increase in their levels of self-esteem and self-efficacy following the intervention. There was also evidence of a positive shift in overall attitude toward life. The findings indicated that equine-facilitated therapy might provide a viable option for youths who have not responded to other interventions and who have disengaged from traditional institutions. |
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Keywords: | self-efficacy self-esteem disengaged youth equine-facilitated psychotherapy life skills creativity in counseling |
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