PERCEPTION OF PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS ABOUT HIPPOTHERAPY IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

Abstract

Objective: To understand the perceptions of parents and caregivers regarding the benefits of equine-assisted therapy in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Methodology: This is a qualitative, exploratory study in which semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents or caregivers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder who were undergoing hippotherapy. After transcribing the interviews, they were analyzed according to Bardin's content analysis method, following the steps of pre-analysis, material exploration, and results processing. Results: Each interview was read thoroughly to identify common characteristics in the participants' responses. After transcription and data analysis, three categories emerged 1) Diagnosis process, 2) Acceptance of the condition, and 3) Perception of hippotherapy. Conclusions: The benefits of equine-assisted therapy are evident in the sessions between the child and the horse, which develop qualities of affection, autonomy, and security. These sessions demonstrate significant advances in relationship socialization and social interaction, with improvements in crises, irritability, and aggressiveness, leading to enhancements in the behavioral and emotional aspects of equine-assisted therapy practitioners.