scholarly journals Raising an Assistance Dog Puppy—Stakeholder Perspectives on What Helps and What Hinders

Animals ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
pp. 128
Author(s):  
Dac Mai ◽  
Tiffani Howell ◽  
Pree Benton ◽  
Pauleen C. Bennett
Keyword(s):  
Social Support ◽  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
Support Programs ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Advanced Training ◽  
Behavioural Development ◽  
Intrapersonal Factors ◽  
Assistance Dogs ◽  
Stakeholder Perspectives ◽  
Assistance Dog

Assistance dog puppies live with their raisers for up to 16 months before entering advanced training and, hopefully, becoming qualified to help people with a disability. Almost half of the puppies fail to meet the behavioural standards required for assistance dogs, and some puppy raisers produce more behaviourally favourable puppies than others. It is unclear what factors influence puppy-raising practice quality. To understand this, we interviewed 17 participants, including experienced puppy raisers (n = 8), provider organisation staff (n = 4), and those who have served both as puppy raisers and staff (n = 5). Results of a thematic analysis suggest three groups of influencing factors, namely intrapersonal factors, social support, and puppy characteristics. Intrapersonal factors such as expectations, competency, perseverance and passion were reported to influence puppy raisers’ experiences, puppy-raising quality, and continuity of service. Contextual factors such as availability of social support (informational and emotional supports) and less-demanding puppies both led to positive puppy-raising experiences, while the former also contributed to puppy raisers’ perceptions of competency. Future research should quantitatively examine the interrelationships of these factors concerning puppies’ behavioural development. Meanwhile, organisations could consider these factors when developing their recruitment and puppy-raiser support programs.

scholarly journals Facilitators and Barriers to Assistance Dog Puppy Raisers’ Engagement in Recommended Raising Practices

Animals ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (5) ◽  
pp. 1195
Author(s):  
Dac Mai ◽  
Tiffani Howell ◽  
Pree Benton ◽  
Virginia Lewis ◽  
Lynette Evans ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Data Analysis ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Behavioural Development ◽  
Effective Learning ◽  
Daily Experiences ◽  
Willingness To Seek Help ◽  
Effective Training ◽  
Facilitators And Barriers ◽  
Recommended Practices ◽  
Assistance Dog

Many assistance dog providers use volunteer raisers to manage each puppy’s learning and daily experiences, which partly determines the puppy’s behavioural development. Therefore, it is important that raisers engage in recommended practices. Three common recommendations from the literature include frequent socialisation and consistent training for the puppies, and effective training for the raisers. However, what facilitates or hinders raisers’ engagement in these practices remains unclear. To understand this, we interviewed eight raisers (three men and five women) every month during their year-long puppy raising program, and pseudo-randomly selected 16 from 48 interviews for data analysis. Thematic analyses revealed several facilitating and/or hindering factors corresponding to each of the three recommended practices. Frequent socialisation was influenced by the raisers’ availability, sharing of puppy raising responsibility with others, support from their workplace, and the puppy’s behaviours (e.g., soiling indoors, jumping). Consistent training was challenged by the presence of everyday distractors, accessibility to timely advice, perceived judgement from others, and the puppy’s undesirable behaviours. Effective learning was facilitated by having information available in raisers’ preferred learning modality, opportunities for peer-learning, and willingness to seek help. Future research should examine these factors quantitatively, which will enable more robust evaluation of programs aimed at supporting puppy raisers.

scholarly journals The effects of assistance dogs on psychosocial health and wellbeing: A systematic literature review

PLoS ONE ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 15 (12) ◽  
pp. e0243302
Author(s):  
Kerri E. Rodriguez ◽  
Jamie Greer ◽  
Jane K. Yatcilla ◽  
Alan M. Beck ◽  
Marguerite E. O’Haire
Keyword(s):  
Psychological Health ◽  
Psychosocial Functioning ◽  
Psychiatric Service ◽  
Psychosocial Health ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Service Dogs ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Health And Wellbeing ◽  
Assistance Dogs ◽  
Assistance Dog

Beyond the functional tasks that assistance dogs are trained for, there is growing literature describing their benefits on the psychosocial health and wellbeing of their handlers. However, this research is not only widely disparate but, despite its growth, has not been reviewed since 2012. Our objective was to identify, summarize, and methodologically evaluate studies quantifying the psychosocial effects of assistance dogs for individuals with physical disabilities. Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review was conducted across seven electronic databases. Records were independently screened by two authors. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they assessed outcomes from guide, hearing, medical, or mobility service dogs, if they collected original data on handlers’ psychosocial functioning, and if the outcome was measured quantitatively with a validated, standardized measure. Studies on psychiatric service dogs, emotional support dogs, and pet dogs were excluded. Of 1,830 records screened, 24 articles were identified (12 publications, 12 theses) containing 27 studies (15 cross-sectional, 12 longitudinal). Studies assessed the effects of mobility (18), hearing (7), guide (4), and medical (2) assistance dog partnerships with an average sample size of N = 83. An analysis of 147 statistical comparisons across the domains of psychological health, quality of life, social health, and vitality found that 68% of comparisons were null, 30% were positive in the hypothesized direction, and 2% were negative. Positive outcomes included significant effects of having an assistance dog on psychological wellbeing, emotional functioning, self-esteem, and vitality. However, it is of note that several methodological weaknesses of the studies make it difficult to draw any definitive conclusions, including inadequate reporting and a failure to account for moderating or confounding variables. Future research will benefit from stronger methodological rigor and reporting to account for heterogeneity in both humans and assistance dogs as well as continued high-quality replication.

scholarly journals Beyond the Benefits of Assistance Dogs: Exploring Challenges Experienced by First-Time Handlers

Animals ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (5) ◽  
pp. 203 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jennifer Gravrok ◽  
Dan Bendrups ◽  
Tiffani Howell ◽  
Pauleen Bennett
Keyword(s):  
Social Support ◽  
Content Analysis ◽  
Social Environment ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Related Factors ◽  
Assistance Dogs ◽  
One Year ◽  
Operational Processes ◽  
Assistance Dog ◽  
First Time

The purpose of this study was to explore first time handlers’ experiences when working with an assistance dog (AD). Interviewees included seven first time AD handlers and 14 other individuals close to these handlers, including family members, carers and AD instructors. Semi-structured interviews were conducted six months and one year after each handler received their AD. Interview questions were informed by the Thriving Through Relationships theory of social support and previous interviews with the participants. Inductive content analysis corroborated previous findings regarding the benefits that ADs provide. In addition, four factors were revealed to substantially influence the challenges handlers experienced when learning to utilize their dog. These included the handlers’ medical conditions, cognitive ability and social environment, and dog-related factors. Organizations would benefit from considering these factors in their operational processes.

Acceptance of the HPV Vaccine in a Multiethnic Sample of Latinx Mothers

2021 ◽  
Vol 31 (3) ◽  
pp. 472-483
Author(s):  
Ana Cristina Lindsay ◽  
Madelyne J. Valdez ◽  
Denisse Delgado ◽  
Emily Restrepo ◽  
Yessica M. Guzmán ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Health Care Providers ◽  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
Hpv Vaccine ◽  
Female Adolescents ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Care Providers ◽  
Foreign Born ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Direct Benefits ◽  
Multiethnic Sample

This descriptive qualitative study explored Latinx mothers’ acceptance of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine for their adolescent children. Data were collected through individual, semi-structured interviews and analyzed using a hybrid method of thematic analysis that incorporated deductive and inductive approaches. Twenty-two ( n = 22), mostly foreign-born, Latinx mothers of male and female adolescents participated in the study. Three main themes and nine subthemes emerged from the analyses. Findings identified the need for increased efforts to raise awareness and knowledge among Latinx mothers of the direct benefits of the HPV vaccine for sons, including stressing prevention of HPV-associated cancers in males. Findings also underscore the need for improved health care providers’ communication and recommendation of the HPV vaccine for Latinx adolescent males. Future research should intervene upon the study’s findings to address barriers that remain and affect Latinx mothers’ acceptance and uptake of the HPV vaccine for their children, in particular their sons.

scholarly journals Social Engagement and Episodic Memory in Non-Hispanic Black and White Older Adults

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 343-343
Author(s):  
Abbey Hamlin ◽  
A Zarina Kraal ◽  
Laura Zahodne
Keyword(s):  
Social Support ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Episodic Memory ◽  
Cognitive Aging ◽  
Social Engagement ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Social Activities ◽  
Linear Regression Models ◽  
Significant Positive Association ◽  
Cross Sectional

Abstract Social engagement may confer cognitive benefits in older adulthood, but studies have typically been restricted to largely non-Hispanic White (NHW) samples. Levels of social engagement vary across race such that NHW report larger social networks, more frequent participation in social activities, and greater social support than non-Hispanic Blacks (NHB). Associations between social engagement and cognition may also vary by race, but research is sparse. The current cross-sectional study examined associations between different aspects of social engagement and episodic memory performance, as well as interactions between social engagement and race among NHB and NHW participants in the Michigan Cognitive Aging Project (N = 247; 48.4% NHB; age = 64.19 ± 2.92). Social engagement (network size, activities, support) was self-reported. Episodic memory was a z-score composite of immediate, delayed, and recognition trials of a list-learning task. Separate hierarchical linear regression models quantified interactions between race and each of the three social engagement variables on episodic memory, controlling for sociodemographics, depressive symptoms, and health conditions. Results showed a main effect of more frequent social activity on better episodic memory, as well as an interaction between race and social support indicating a significant positive association in NHB but not NHW. These preliminary findings suggest that participating in social activities may be equally beneficial for episodic memory across NHB and NHW older adults and that social support may be particularly beneficial for NHB. Future research is needed to determine the potential applications of these results in reducing cognitive inequalities through the development of culturally-relevant interventions.

scholarly journals Staying Home, Staying Alive: Campus Food Pantry Student Clients’ Experiences During the COVID-19 Pandemic

2021 ◽  
pp. 193672442110356
Author(s):  
Elmira Jangjou
Keyword(s):  
Coping Strategies ◽  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Postsecondary Students ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Short Term ◽  
Income Loss ◽  
Food Pantry ◽  
Global Pandemic ◽  
Seeking Help

In response to students’ food insecurity, a number of colleges and universities have taken action and established campus food pantries as part of their intervention plans. However, many of these pantries ceased operation due to COVID-19 campus shutdowns. The purpose of this study is to illustrate the short-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on postsecondary students, who use a university-provided food pantry. Drawing from semi-structured interviews with 12 participants, the thematic analysis explored the initial coping strategies these students used to endure the pandemic. Findings revealed that many students experienced the immediate effects of the pandemic in the form of income loss, self-isolation, anxiety, and appetite change. Although the pandemic interrupted these students’ journeys to continue their studies and become independent in various ways, the affected students implemented various coping strategies, including seeking help from family or friends, using available resources, cooking at home, and even trying to save money. However, considering that the targeted population in this study was already at risk because of their basic needs insecurity, these postsecondary students require extra attention from their higher education institutions in the case of emergencies, such as a global pandemic. In addition to its timely and relevant findings, this study provides important avenues for future research and intervention efforts.

Influences on Academic Talent Development of Black Girls in K-12: A Systematic Review

2021 ◽  
pp. 1932202X2110138
Author(s):  
Brenda K. Davis
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Racial Identity ◽  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
Systematic Approach ◽  
Talent Development ◽  
Academic Development ◽  
Black Girls ◽  
Personal Attributes ◽  
Future Research ◽  
K 12

Black girls experience numerous challenges to their academic development. This study examines the literature from the last 30 years related to the influences on the academic talent development of school-aged Black girls. Environmental and intrapersonal influences to Black girls academic talent development are explored. Using a systematic approach, 43 articles are reviewed and summarized. Thematic analysis conducted on the results and findings sections from each article reveal four major themes related to personal attributes, racial identity, relationships, and institutions. The themes expand the understanding of the complexity of talent development of Black girls and identify several intrapersonal and environmental influences that can promote or hinder academic achievement. Implications for future research are discussed.

scholarly journals Self-rated health among undocumented and newly regularized migrants in Geneva: a cross-sectional study

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Julien Fakhoury ◽  
Claudine Burton-Jeangros ◽  
Idris Guessous ◽  
Liala Consoli ◽  
Aline Duvoisin ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Social Support ◽  
Social Networks ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Undocumented Migrants ◽  
Long Term Effects ◽  
Residence Permit ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Convenience Sample ◽  
Self Rated Health

Abstract Background In Europe, knowledge about the social determinants of health among undocumented migrants is scarce. The canton of Geneva, Switzerland, implemented in 2017–2018 a pilot public policy aiming at regularizing undocumented migrants. We sought to test for associations between self-rated health, proven eligibility for residence status regularization and social and economic integration. Methods This paper reports data from the first wave of the Parchemins Study, a prospective study whose aim is to investigate the effect of residence status regularization on undocumented migrants’ living conditions and health. The convenience sample included undocumented migrants living in Geneva for at least 3 years. We categorized them into those who were in the process of receiving or had just been granted a residence permit (eligible or newly regularized) and those who had not applied or were ineligible for regularization (undocumented). We conducted multivariate regression analyses to determine factors associated with better self-rated health, i.e., with excellent/very good vs. good/fair/poor self-rated health. Among these factors, measures of integration, social support and economic resources were included. Results Of the 437 participants, 202 (46%) belonged to the eligible or newly regularized group. This group reported better health more frequently than the undocumented group (44.6% versus 28.9%, p-value < .001), but the association was no longer significant after adjustment for social support and economic factors (odds ratio (OR): 1.12; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.67–1.87). Overall, better health was associated with larger social networks (OR: 1.66; 95% CI: 1.04–2.64). This association remained significant even after adjusting for health-related variables. Conclusion At the onset of the regularization program, access to regularization was not associated with better self-rated health. Policies aiming at favouring undocumented migrants’ inclusion and engagement in social networks may promote better health. Future research should investigate long-term effects of residence status regularization on self-rated health.

scholarly journals Brief Mindfulness-Based Interventions: Teacher and Course Attendee Perspectives on Content

Mindfulness ◽  
2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kelly Birtwell ◽  
Rebecca Morris ◽  
Christopher J. Armitage
Keyword(s):  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
Scientific Literacy ◽  
Stakeholder Involvement ◽  
The Body ◽  
Focused Attention ◽  
Home Practice ◽  
Mixed Methods Design ◽  
Stakeholder Perspectives ◽  
Open Questions ◽  
Intervention Content

Abstract Objectives While brief mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) show promise, stakeholder involvement in their design is lacking and intervention content can vary substantially. The aim of this study is to explore stakeholder perspectives of brief MBIs, brief MBI content, and adapting existing MBIs. Methods In this convergent mixed methods design study, 22 mindfulness teachers and 20 mindfulness course attendees completed an online UK-based survey. Twenty-six participants were female, and mean age was 50.8 years. Data from closed questions were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, and data from open questions were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results Findings suggest a brief MBI could comprise five 80-min sessions and include focused attention practice, informal mindfulness, inquiry, psychoeducation, and 20 min of daily home practice. Opinions of some elements differed among participants, such as the body scan, poetry, and the sitting with difficulty practice. Four themes were generated from participants’ comments about their attitudes to brief MBIs, which were generally positive but expressed concerns about insufficient content and poor delivery. Three themes were generated about adapting MBIs, suggesting tensions between adhering to a curriculum and meeting group needs. Five themes were generated from views about the content and characteristics of MBIs, highlighting the importance of accessibility, teacher training, and participant safety. Conclusions Brief MBIs may increase access to mindfulness training, yet there is a need for adequate governance and transparency regarding their strengths and limitations. Clarity and evidence of MBI mechanisms along with scientific literacy in teachers will support fidelity-consistent modifications.

scholarly journals P016: Feasibility of a nurse-led smoking cessation intervention in the emergency department

CJEM ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 22 (S1) ◽  
pp. S70-S70
Author(s):  
A. Tolmie ◽  
R. Erker ◽  
A. Donauer ◽  
E. Sullivan ◽  
T. Graham ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Emergency Department ◽  
Smoking Cessation ◽  
Cigarette Smoking ◽  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
Smoking Prevalence ◽  
Community Support ◽  
Support Programs ◽  
Written Responses ◽  
Smoking Cessation Counselling ◽  
Community Support Programs

Introduction: Cigarette smoking is a leading global cause of morbidity and mortality. Multiple studies internationally have established that cigarette smoking prevalence is higher in emergency department (ED) patients than their respective communities. Previously, we demonstrated the smoking prevalence among Saskatoon ED patients (19.6%) is significantly higher than the provincial average (15.1%), and over 50% of smoking patients would be receptive to ED-specific cessation support. The purpose of this project was to identify nurses’ beliefs regarding smoking cessation in the ED, and barriers to implementing it in the department. Methods: A questionnaire was administered to all nurses employed at St. Paul's Hospital ED in Saskatoon assessing attitudes towards ED cessations, as well as the benefit and feasibility of three potential interventions: brief cessation counselling, referral to community support programs, and distributing educational resources. The questionnaire included Likert scale numerical ratings, and written responses for thematic analysis. Thematic analysis was performed by creating definitions of identified themes, followed by independent review of the data by researchers. Results: 83% of eligible nurses completed the survey (n = 63). Based on Likert scores, ED nurses rarely attempt to provide cessation support, and would be minimally comfortable with personally providing this service. Barriers identified through thematic analysis included time constraints (68.3%), lack of patient readiness (19%), and lack of resources/follow-up (15.9%). Referral to community support programs was deemed most feasible and likely to be beneficial, while counselling within the ED was believed to be least feasible and beneficial. Overall, 93.3% of nurses indicated time and workload as barriers to providing ED cessation support during the survey. Conclusion: Although the ED is a critical location for providing cessation support, the proposed interventions were viewed as a low priority task outside the scope of the ED. Previous literature has demonstrated that multifaceted ED interventions using counselling, handouts, and referrals are more efficacious than a singular approach. While introduction of a referral program has some merit, having professionals dedicated to ED cessation support would be most effective. At minimum, staff education regarding importance of providing smoking cessation therapy, and simple ways to incorporate smoking cessation counselling into routine nursing care could be beneficial.

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