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International
conference explores the role for pets
New
research reveals that interaction with pets can positively influence
classroom behaviour among boisterous and uncooperative children.
Additionally, portrayals of animals on television can be a source
of education and influence a child's realisation of their own
thoughts, beliefs and desires.
These findings are among the new scientific research and practical
examples exploring the influence of pets on children to be presented
on Saturday 5 October at an international one day conference
in London. Hosted by the Society for Companion Animal Studies
(SCAS), the conference includes presentations from the UK, Brazil,
Netherlands and Austria.
While the positive influence that pets can have on our physical
and mental well-being has been well documented, the specific
influence of pets on children is a new area receiving scientific
attention. Research to be announced at the conference includes:
n Social integration: dogs in an elementary school made restless
and boisterous children more quiet and the withdrawn more active
Co-operative behaviour: research examined the psychological
effects of animal assisted classroom activities, whereby animals
help with the functioning of groups of children
Influence of media: the extent to which television programmes
and films about pets can serve as sources of learning within
the school context is explored and the efficacy of animal welfare
programmes considered
Can animals think?: an exploration of children's acquisition
of theory of mind in humans and animals - do portrayals of animals
on television as thinkers and planners make children believe
animals have complex mental abilities?
Liz Ormerod, Chair of SCAS, said: "Children tend to form
very special attachments to companion animals and this can have
a very positive effect on their development.
Companion animals can serve many roles including playmate and
confidante. For some, they can represent a 'surrogate sibling'.
Through learning to care for and understand animals, children
develop greater empathy for other people, and the nurturing
skills that are the basis of successful parenting. Pet ownership,
however, requires careful planning and the selection of an appropriate
animal - parents should consult their veterinary practice for
advice."
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