1
|
Longitudinal associations between allostatic load, pet ownership, and socioeconomic position among U.S. adults aged 50. SSM Popul Health 2023; 21:101344. [PMID: 36684398 PMCID: PMC9853381 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2023.101344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
It is hypothesized that pets provide benefits to human health by buffering the deleterious effects of stress, but varying exposure to chronic stress via social position is rarely considered in these conceptual and empirical models. Allostatic load is an index of biological and physical measures that represents cumulative wear and tear on the body via chronic stress exposure. In this study, we use the 2006-2016 waves of the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative, longitudinal panel survey of adults aged 50+ in the United States, to test whether and to what extent pet ownership has an impact on allostatic load, and whether pet ownership moderates the effects of socioeconomic position on allostatic load. Linear mixed effects regression models revealed that pet owners had significantly lower allostatic load scores than those who do not own pets; however, after adjusting for socioeconomic position (i.e., wealth, education, race, ethnicity, gender, marital status), the effect of pet ownership was no longer significant. We estimated a series of models stratified by sociodemographic groups to test moderation effects. Among those who had a high school education, pet owners had lower allostatic load scores, whereas among those who had attended some college, pet owners had higher scores. Among those who were aged 80+, pet owners had higher scores than those who did not own pets. These findings suggest that the magnitude of the effect of pet ownership on allostatic load may not be sufficient to counteract experiences of high chronic stress as experienced by lower-status groups. Supporting the human-animal bond may contribute to improving older adult population health if paired with efforts to address the underlying causes of population health disparities.
Collapse
|
2
|
Murphy JL, Voorhees EV, O'Connor KE, Tomlinson CA, Matijczak A, Applebaum JW, Ascione FR, Williams JH, McDonald SE. Positive Engagement with Pets Buffers the Impact of Intimate Partner Violence on Callous-Unemotional Traits in Children. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP17205-NP17226. [PMID: 34275347 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211028301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Childhood exposure to intimate partner violence (IPV) is associated with serious psychological outcomes including increased odds of developing callous-unemotional (CU) traits and behaviors. Recent studies suggest that concomitant exposure to animal cruelty (AC) may increase this risk. However, even under these circumstances, bonds with companion animals may still be a protective factor that buffers the deleterious impact of IPV on child adjustment. This cross-sectional study evaluates whether, and to what extent, the association between exposure to IPV and children's CU and empathic-prosocial (EP) traits vary as a function of children's positive engagement with pets and exposure to AC. Participants included 204 children (aged 7-12 years; 57% Latinx) and their maternal caregiver who were recruited from domestic violence agencies in a western US state. We conducted multiple moderation analyses to evaluate each outcome individually (i.e., CU traits, EP traits), adjusting for the effects of child age, gender, and Hispanic ethnicity. Positive engagement with pets significantly moderated the relationship between IPV and CU traits, ∇R = 0.03, F (1, 195) = 7.43, β = -0.17, t(195) = -2.73, p = .007. Specifically, when high levels of positive engagement with pets is present, IPV is negatively associated with CU traits, whereas the reverse was true at low levels of positive engagement with pets. Evidence of moderation by AC was not supported. Our findings suggest that children who form close relationships with their pets in the context of IPV appear to derive important support from these animals; safeguarding the well-being of these animals may be critical to their long-term emotional health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Murphy
- Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Social Work, Virginia, United States
| | - Elizabeth Van Voorhees
- Duke University Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, North Carolina, United States
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States
| | - Kelly E O'Connor
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Department of Psychology, Virginia, United States
| | - Camie A Tomlinson
- Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Social Work, Virginia, United States
| | - Angela Matijczak
- Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Social Work, Virginia, United States
| | - Jennifer W Applebaum
- Department of Sociology and Criminology & Law, University of Florida, Florida, United States
| | - Frank R Ascione
- Graduate School of Social Work, University of Denver, Colorado, United States
| | | | - Shelby E McDonald
- Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Social Work, Virginia, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Hamilton LHA, Van Vliet KJ, Lasiuk G, Varnhagen CK. The Lived Experience of Human-Pet Relationships among Adult Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. JOURNAL OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE 2022; 31:817-835. [PMID: 36039575 DOI: 10.1080/10538712.2022.2112350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Given the high prevalence and severe consequences of childhood sexual abuse, it is essential to identify ways to support adult survivors. One potential and relatively unexplored resource available to survivors is the human-pet relationship. In the literature, the human-pet relationship is linked to many positive benefits to physiological regulation, mental health, physical health, and social support - areas of functioning where survivors of childhood sexual abuse may be particularly at risk. Despite existing evidence, there is little research on human-pet relationships among survivors of childhood sexual abuse. To help address this gap, this qualitative study explored the lived experience of human-pet relationships among adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Utilizing data collection and analysis methods from Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse. The following themes were developed from the data: (a) close bond with pet; (b) idiosyncrasies within the human-pet relationship; (c) moral responsibility; (d) fundamental differences between pets and humans; (e) safety in the human-pet relationship; (f) resource for coping with painful experience; (g) positive impact on well-being; (h) buttress for human-human social interaction; (i) medium for skill and knowledge development; and (j) shortcomings of the human-pet relationship. Findings are discussed in the context of the existing literature, along with considerations for practice and future research with childhood sexual abuse survivors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leslie H A Hamilton
- Faculty of Education, College of Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - K Jessica Van Vliet
- Faculty of Education, College of Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gerri Lasiuk
- University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Connie K Varnhagen
- Faculty of Education, College of Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hawkins RD, Robinson C, Brodie ZP. Child–Dog Attachment, Emotion Regulation and Psychopathology: The Mediating Role of Positive and Negative Behaviours. Behav Sci (Basel) 2022; 12:bs12040109. [PMID: 35447681 PMCID: PMC9027944 DOI: 10.3390/bs12040109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that pet dogs can offer features of a secure attachment which has been associated with healthy psychological development across the lifespan. Limited research has investigated the underpinning mechanisms that may contribute to the benefits and risks of child–dog attachment during childhood. This study aimed to test the potential mediating role of caregiver-observed positive and negative child–dog behaviours, on the relationship between child-reported child–dog attachment, and caregiver-reported child psychopathology and emotion regulation. Data from 117 caregiver reports and 77 child self-reports were collected through an online survey in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Parallel mediation analyses indicated that child–dog attachment had a significant indirect effect on conduct problems through negative child–dog behaviours only. Child–dog attachment had a significant indirect effect on emotional symptoms, peer problems, prosocial behaviour, emotion regulation, and emotional lability/negativity through both positive and negative child–dog behaviours. Although this study found modest effect sizes, the findings suggest that the types of interactions that children engage in with their pet dogs may be important mechanisms through which pet attachment contributes to psychological development throughout childhood, and therefore further attention is warranted. Positive and safe child–dog interactions can be facilitated through education and intervention, which may have implications for promoting positive developmental outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roxanne D. Hawkins
- Division of Psychology, School of Education and Social Sciences, Paisley Campus, University of West of Scotland, Elles Building East, Paisley PA1 2BE, UK;
- Correspondence:
| | - Charlotte Robinson
- School of Psychology, Cardiff University, Tower Building, 70 Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK;
| | - Zara P. Brodie
- Division of Psychology, School of Education and Social Sciences, Paisley Campus, University of West of Scotland, Elles Building East, Paisley PA1 2BE, UK;
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mota-Rojas D, Monsalve S, Lezama-García K, Mora-Medina P, Domínguez-Oliva A, Ramírez-Necoechea R, Garcia RDCM. Animal Abuse as an Indicator of Domestic Violence: One Health, One Welfare Approach. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12080977. [PMID: 35454224 PMCID: PMC9024712 DOI: 10.3390/ani12080977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
For years now, the importance of animal cruelty has been gaining recognition in the industrialized cities of the West. Animal cruelty encompasses any act that causes a non-human animal unnecessary pain or suffering, including negligence, abandonment, abuse, torture, bestiality, and even theriocide. This represents a red flag for society as a whole because people who commit such acts can escalate violence and direct it to other individuals. Animal cruelty and interpersonal violence—as well as other socially undesirable conduct such as bullying, antisocial personality disorder, rape, and serial murder—are closely related, so timely diagnoses of either one can help prevent acts of aggression. It is necessary, therefore, to analyze and try to understand whether there are early indicators that may help identify potentially violent individuals. It is well known that kids from homes with actual violence in their homes show a high tendency to reproduce such behaviors with both animals and other people. In conclusion, much research and rethinking of the importance of the veterinarian in detecting animal abuse and cruelty is needed to help detect and prevent cases of interpersonal violence that may arise over time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Mota-Rojas
- Neurophysiology of Pain, Behavior and Assessment of Welfare in Domestic Animals, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM), Mexico City 04960, Mexico; (K.L.-G.); (A.D.-O.); (R.R.-N.)
- Correspondence: (D.M.-R.); (R.d.C.M.G.)
| | - Stefany Monsalve
- Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Programa de Especialización en Bienestar Animal y Etología, Fundación Universitaria Agraria de Colombia, Calle 170 No 54 A 10, Bogotá 111321, Colombia;
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Fundación Universitaria San Martín, Carrera 18 No 80 45, Bogotá 110221, Colombia
| | - Karina Lezama-García
- Neurophysiology of Pain, Behavior and Assessment of Welfare in Domestic Animals, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM), Mexico City 04960, Mexico; (K.L.-G.); (A.D.-O.); (R.R.-N.)
| | - Patricia Mora-Medina
- Animal Welfare and Behavior Center, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuautitlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City 54714, Mexico;
| | - Adriana Domínguez-Oliva
- Neurophysiology of Pain, Behavior and Assessment of Welfare in Domestic Animals, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM), Mexico City 04960, Mexico; (K.L.-G.); (A.D.-O.); (R.R.-N.)
| | - Ramiro Ramírez-Necoechea
- Neurophysiology of Pain, Behavior and Assessment of Welfare in Domestic Animals, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (UAM), Mexico City 04960, Mexico; (K.L.-G.); (A.D.-O.); (R.R.-N.)
| | - Rita de Cassia Maria Garcia
- Veterinary Medicine of the Collective and Veterinary Social Work, Legal Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba 80060-000, Brazil
- Correspondence: (D.M.-R.); (R.d.C.M.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Marçal KE, Showalter K, Maguire-Jack K. Intimate Partner Violence and Depression of Mothers and Their Adolescent Children: The Roles of Housing Insecurity and System Contacts. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:8862605221078814. [PMID: 35259037 DOI: 10.1177/08862605221078814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization is a prominent risk factor for depression among mothers. Less is known about the long-term relationship between IPV and maternal depression, impacts of IPV exposure on children, and mechanisms linking IPV with long-term mental health problems. IPV threatens stable housing for survivors, which increases likelihood of surveillance and sanctioning by formal systems - in particular, child welfare and criminal justice. The present study investigates whether housing insecurity and system contacts mediate the relationship between maternal IPV victimization and depression among both mothers and children 10 years later. Data comes from the Fragile Families and Child Well-being Study, a longitudinal survey of at-risk families with children. Structural equation modeling investigates pathways from IPV victimization of mothers to maternal and child depression via housing insecurity and contact with the child welfare and criminal justice systems. Results show IPV victimization is directly associated with housing insecurity, child welfare contact, and adolescent depression. Further, housing insecurity leading to both types of system contact mediates the link from IPV to maternal depression; in contrast, housing insecurity alone mediates the link from IPV to depression among children when they are 15 years old. Findings suggest IPV toward mothers has enduring, multigenerational effects on mental health that unfold over a long period following victimization. Complex pathways suggest housing insecurity and contact with punitive social systems that disproportionately impact low-income families explain in part the link from IPV to depression. Lack of housing options may deter survivors from leaving violent relationships, and housing insecurity in the wake of victimization may contribute to interactions with punitive social systems. Efforts to address housing, stigma, and psychological needs of IPV survivors are crucial to stabilize families.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine E Marçal
- Greenspun College of Urban Affairs, 14722University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Kathryn Showalter
- College of Social Work, 4530University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
The Intertwined Well-Being of Children and Non-Human Animals: An Analysis of Animal Control Reports Involving Children. SOCIAL SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/socsci11020046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The well-being of children and non-human animals (subsequently referred to as animals) is often intertwined. Communities are unlikely to be able to best protect humans from abuse and harm unless they are working to ensure the safety of animals who reside there as well. This study is the first to utilize U.S. animal control report data and narratives to explore how children are involved in cases of animal cruelty. Children engage in abusive acts toward animals, alone, or along with peers and/or adults. Children were found to inflict abuse most often with their hands or feet as opposed to with a weapon or other object. A total of 85% of animal cruelty perpetrated by children was toward a dog or cat. Key differences between how children are involved in acts of cruelty to companion animals compared with acts involving wild animals are described and warrant further study. The cases of animal abuse or neglect reported by children were among the most severe in the study, and often involved an adult perpetrator known to the child. Neighbors rarely report child abuse or intimate partner violence in the United States, but 89% of the animal cruelty cases involving children in this study were reported by a neighbor or passerby. Although children involved in reports as a perpetrator or reporter were most often in early adolescence, children involved in cross-reports between child welfare and animal control were often under the age of 5. Improved cross-reporting and stronger partnerships between human and animal welfare agencies may provide opportunity for earlier intervention and is likely to better many human and animal lives.
Collapse
|
8
|
Relationships among Early Adversity, Positive Human and Animal Interactions, and Mental Health in Young Adults. Behav Sci (Basel) 2021; 11:bs11120178. [PMID: 34940113 PMCID: PMC8698849 DOI: 10.3390/bs11120178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with poor mental health. Emerging research demonstrates the protective role of positive childhood experiences, including a positive sense of self and relationships with both humans and animals, in mitigating the impacts of early life adversity on mental health outcomes. This study examined whether benevolent childhood experiences (BCEs) or relationships and interactions with pets during childhood moderated the link between ACEs and current mental health symptoms in a sample of young adults. Students (N = 214) recruited from a public university in the U.S. completed an online survey. The results showed that ACEs were significantly associated with worse mental health symptoms, including anxiety and depression. Neither emotional closeness to a childhood pet dog nor positive interactions with a childhood pet were significant moderators of the relationship between ACEs and mental health. In contrast, more BCEs were associated with better mental health, and their interaction with ACEs was significant such that adversity-exposed young adults with high BCEs reported fewer mental health symptoms than those with low BCEs. The results highlight the need for continued research on differential experiences that may be protective in the relationship between adversity exposures and mental health.
Collapse
|
9
|
McDonald SE, Tomlinson CA, Applebaum JW, Moyer SW, Brown SM, Carter S, Kinser PA. Human-Animal Interaction and Perinatal Mental Health: A Narrative Review of Selected Literature and Call for Research. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:10114. [PMID: 34639416 PMCID: PMC8508333 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph181910114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
There is a paucity of research exploring how relationships with household pets may impact maternal mental health. We are unaware of any study to date that has examined associations between individuals' relationships with their pets and psychological adjustment in the perinatal period. Using a biobehavioral lens, this paper provides a narrative overview of the literature on perinatal mental health and human-animal interaction (HAI). We focus on the role of social relationships, stress, and stress reduction in relation to perinatal mental health; the role of HAI in perceptions of social support, stressors, and stress reduction; and gaps in empirical knowledge concerning the role of HAI in perinatal mental health. Finally, we integrate contemporary biobehavioral models of perinatal mental health and HAI (i.e., Comprehensive Model of Mental Health during the Perinatal Period and the HAI-HPA Transactional Model) to propose a new conceptual framework that depicts ways in which HAI during the perinatal period may influence maternal and child health and wellbeing. To our knowledge, this is the first paper to consider the role of HAI in biobehavioral responses and mental health during the perinatal period. We conclude with recommendations for future research and improved perinatal care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shelby E. McDonald
- Children, Families, and Animals Research (CFAR) Group, LLC, Richmond, VA 23223, USA
| | - Camie A. Tomlinson
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - Jennifer W. Applebaum
- Department of Sociology and Criminology & Law, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA;
| | - Sara W. Moyer
- School of Nursing, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (S.W.M.); (P.A.K.)
| | - Samantha M. Brown
- School of Social Work, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
| | - Sue Carter
- The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA;
| | - Patricia A. Kinser
- School of Nursing, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (S.W.M.); (P.A.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Applebaum JW, MacLean EL, McDonald SE. Love, fear, and the human-animal bond: On adversity and multispecies relationships. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2021; 7. [PMID: 34485952 PMCID: PMC8415490 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2021.100071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Love and strong social bonds are known buffers in the experience of adversity. Humans often form strong bonds with non-human animals. The human-animal bond refers to a mutually beneficial and dynamic relationship between humans and non-human animals. Previous research suggests that strong bonds with pets may promote resilience in the experience of adversity, but a strong bond with a pet can also complicate this very experience of adversity, particularly among low-resourced and disadvantaged populations. What is the role of the human-animal bond in adversity, and what is the role of adversity in the bond between a human and a non-human animal? In this article we outline the state of research on the role of various types and sources of adversities in multispecies households (i.e., families, relationships) to consider this overarching question. We focus specifically on intimate partner violence, housing discrimination, LGBTQ+ identity-based discrimination, racism, neighborhood disadvantage, and economic inequality. We then outline an agenda for future research about love, adversity, and multispecies relationships, and discuss implications for public policy and community-based interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer W Applebaum
- University of Florida, Department of Sociology and Criminology & Law, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Evan L MacLean
- University of Arizona, School of Anthropology & College of Veterinary Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Shelby E McDonald
- Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Social Work, Richmond, VA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Jalongo MR. Pet Keeping in the Time of COVID-19: The Canine and Feline Companions of Young Children. EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION JOURNAL 2021; 51:1-11. [PMID: 34426724 PMCID: PMC8372227 DOI: 10.1007/s10643-021-01251-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Amid COVID-19, children's interactions with pet animals in the household were at times strengthened, strained, or established anew. Extensive periods of confinement made the home environment not only the site for most family activities but also the hub for children's school and many adults' work. Research on the role of pets during the pandemic has consisted primarily of online surveys with the general finding that sweeping changes to daily living had major consequences for the dynamics between pets and people. This article addresses issues related to young children and pet keeping within the context of the recent world health crisis and the resultant lockdowns. First, it describes how the definition of a pet has changed. It then examines children's attachments to dogs and cats, the two species most frequently chosen as pets for young children worldwide. Next, it highlights the potential risks and rewards of children cohabitating with cats and dogs at a time when many families were sequestered in homes. The article concludes with a discussion of the limitations and contributions of research on pet keeping during COVID-19 and suggests appropriate next steps that take into consideration the welfare of young children and their companion animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Renck Jalongo
- Emerita, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, 654 College Lodge Road, Indiana, PA 15701 USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Adams BL, Applebaum JW, Eliasson MN, McDonald SE, Zsembik BA. Child and Pet Care-Planning During COVID-19: Considerations for the Evolving Family Unit. FAMILY RELATIONS 2021; 70:705-716. [PMID: 34230735 PMCID: PMC8250816 DOI: 10.1111/fare.12542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Using a mixed-methods design, we aimed to understand household dynamics and choices in hypothetical planning for child and pet care if an individual is faced with hospitalization for COVID-19. BACKGROUND As the COVID-19 public health crisis persists, children and pets are vulnerable to caregiver hospitalization. METHODS Bivariate associations from a large-scale survey explore hypothetical options for dependent care-planning. An open-ended question regarding pet-child interactions is coded applying a grounded theory framework. RESULTS Caregivers expect to rely on family and friends to care for children, especially young children, and pets if hospitalized. The presence of pets in the home has been predominately positive for children during the pandemic, suggesting benefits of alternative care options that keep children and pets together. CONCLUSIONS Relying on one's social network to care for dependents if caregivers become ill from COVID-19 could place loved ones at risk for contracting the virus, which could present obstacles to arranging care plans, especially inclusive of pets and children. IMPLICATIONS The changing information regarding COVID-19 warrants that families establish concrete care plans for dependent children and pets. The spread of COVID-19 to the most vulnerable, such as grandparents and other family who may be expected to care for dependents, could create additional public health concerns.
Collapse
|
13
|
Applebaum JW, Ellison C, Struckmeyer L, Zsembik BA, McDonald SE. The Impact of Pets on Everyday Life for Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Front Public Health 2021; 9:652610. [PMID: 33898382 PMCID: PMC8062698 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.652610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The social and behavioral health of older adults is of particular concern during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is estimated that at least 50% of older adults in the U.S. have pets; while pets may be a source of support, they could also pose unique challenges during an already trying time. We aimed to investigate how pets impacted the everyday lives of older adults in the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A large survey of U.S. pet owners (n = 2,068) was administered to assess the impact of relationships with pets during COVID-19 on human health and well-being. We conducted bivariate analyses to compare levels of social support, loneliness, pet attachment, and family income for a subset of older adults (ages 65 and older) with a younger comparison group (ages 18-64). Using thematic and content analysis, we analyzed two open-ended prompts from age 65+ respondents (n = 122): (1) the pros and cons of living with pets during the pandemic, and (2) advice for those living with pets in future pandemics. Results: Older adults, on average, reported lower levels of social support and less loneliness than respondents below age 65. There were no significant differences in strength of attachment to pets nor income between the younger and older respondents. For the open-ended prompt regarding pros and cons, we coded three emerging themes and related sub-themes: (1) pros (company; more time together; life purpose or meaning; love; support; stress relief; routine; distraction; exercise), (2) cons (general worry; potential for illness; limited participation; veterinary care access; obtaining supplies; difficulty meeting pet needs; financial concerns), and (3) no difference. Advice shared was coded into 13 themes/sub-themes: pets' health and welfare; make plans; veterinary information; treat pets like family; don't abandon pets; human health and well-being; stay calm; enjoy pets; keep routine; be careful of transmission; seek community resources; keep supplies stocked; and finances. Conclusions: Pets may fulfill some social and emotional needs for older adults during this particularly isolating event; equally important to consider are the challenges that may be precipitated by and/or exacerbated by this public health emergency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer W. Applebaum
- Department of Sociology and Criminology & Law, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Carlyn Ellison
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Linda Struckmeyer
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Barbara A. Zsembik
- Department of Sociology and Criminology & Law, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Shelby E. McDonald
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
McDonald SE, O’Connor KE, Matijczak A, Tomlinson CA, Applebaum JW, Murphy JL, Zsembik BA. Attachment to Pets Moderates Transitions in Latent Patterns of Mental Health Following the Onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Results of a Survey of U.S. Adults. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:895. [PMID: 33801041 PMCID: PMC8004029 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This cross-sectional study examined whether, and to what extent, attachment to pets was associated with changes in latent patterns of adults' perceived mental health symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic (n = 1942). We used latent transition analysis to determine the stability of subgroup membership pre- and post-COVID and the effect of attachment to pets on transition probabilities. Mental health before COVID-19 was measured retrospectively. Five subgroups were identified: low symptoms, mild symptoms, moderate symptoms, high symptoms, and severe symptoms. Among individuals in the moderate and high symptoms subgroups, those who reported high attachment to pets generally had greater odds of transitioning to a less severe symptom profile (OR = 2.12) over time than those with low attachment to pets (OR = 1.39). However, those who had a severe symptom profile and high attachment to pets had lower odds of transitioning to a less severe symptom profile (OR = 0.30) and higher odds of maintaining a severe symptom profile (OR = 3.33) than those with low attachment to pets. These findings suggest that the protective and risk effects of attachment to pets differ based on individuals' psychological symptom patterns across multiple indicators. We discuss the implications of these findings for research, policy, and practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shelby E. McDonald
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1000 Floyd Ave, Richmond, VA 23284, USA; (A.M.); (C.A.T.); (J.L.M.)
| | - Kelly E. O’Connor
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 806 West Franklin St., Richmond, VA 23284, USA;
| | - Angela Matijczak
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1000 Floyd Ave, Richmond, VA 23284, USA; (A.M.); (C.A.T.); (J.L.M.)
| | - Camie A. Tomlinson
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1000 Floyd Ave, Richmond, VA 23284, USA; (A.M.); (C.A.T.); (J.L.M.)
| | - Jennifer W. Applebaum
- Department of Sociology and Criminology & Law, University of Florida, 3219 Turlington Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; (J.W.A.); (B.A.Z.)
| | - Jennifer L. Murphy
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1000 Floyd Ave, Richmond, VA 23284, USA; (A.M.); (C.A.T.); (J.L.M.)
| | - Barbara A. Zsembik
- Department of Sociology and Criminology & Law, University of Florida, 3219 Turlington Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA; (J.W.A.); (B.A.Z.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Micali
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland. .,Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland. .,Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
The Moderating Effect of Comfort from Companion Animals and Social Support on the Relationship between Microaggressions and Mental Health in LGBTQ+ Emerging Adults. Behav Sci (Basel) 2020; 11:bs11010001. [PMID: 33374678 PMCID: PMC7822483 DOI: 10.3390/bs11010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other sexual/gender minority identities) individuals frequently report exposure to microaggressions, which are associated with deleterious mental health outcomes. Social support from humans has been found to be an important protective factor for LGBTQ+ emerging adults. However, an underexplored area of research is the protective role of interactions with companion animals for this population. We conducted simple and multiple moderation analyses to explore whether and to what extent emotional comfort from companion animals and human social support moderated the relationship between LGBTQ-related microaggressions and depressive and anxiety symptoms. Our sample included 134 LGBTQ+ emerging adults (mean age of 19.31). We found that social support moderated the relationship between microaggressions and depressive symptoms. The relationship between microaggressions and depressive symptoms was not significant at high levels of social support, indicating the protective nature of human social support. Comfort from companion animals also moderated the relationship between interpersonal microaggressions and depressive symptoms. For participants with high or medium levels of emotional comfort from companion animals, interpersonal microaggressions were positively associated with depressive symptoms. Our results highlight the need to further investigate the complex role of relationships with companion animals on mental health outcomes for LGBTQ+ emerging adults.
Collapse
|
17
|
Applebaum JW, Tomlinson CA, Matijczak A, McDonald SE, Zsembik BA. The Concerns, Difficulties, and Stressors of Caring for Pets during COVID-19: Results from a Large Survey of U.S. Pet Owners. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E1882. [PMID: 33076475 PMCID: PMC7602525 DOI: 10.3390/ani10101882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pets may be a positive presence for their owners during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. However, it is pertinent to identify the hardships associated with pet ownership. We conducted a large-scale survey of U.S. pet owners (n = 2254) in spring and summer 2020 to assess the ways that relationships with pets impacted life during COVID-19. We used thematic analysis to analyze 3671 open-ended responses to three prompts. Reported concerns fell into three major categories: (1) pet-focused (meeting needs of pets; procuring supplies; accessing veterinary care; new and emerging behavioral issues; fate of the pet if owner becomes ill; general safety and well-being), (2) human-focused (issues with working from home; well-being and mental health; balancing responsibilities), and (3) household-focused (disease spread; economic issues). Quantitative analyses showed that the owner's strength of attachment to their pet, economic resources, and relationship status were associated with the types of concerns expressed. Results from this study indicate that pet owners experienced unique hardships related to changes in everyday life from the COVID-19 pandemic. These hardships should be considered alongside the potential benefits found in other studies in order to manage pet owner expectations, prevent pet relinquishment, and more fully understand multifaceted human-companion animal relationships.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer W. Applebaum
- Department of Sociology and Criminology & Law, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA;
| | - Camie A. Tomlinson
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA; (C.A.T.); (A.M.); (S.E.M.)
| | - Angela Matijczak
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA; (C.A.T.); (A.M.); (S.E.M.)
| | - Shelby E. McDonald
- School of Social Work, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA; (C.A.T.); (A.M.); (S.E.M.)
| | - Barbara A. Zsembik
- Department of Sociology and Criminology & Law, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA;
| |
Collapse
|