Equine-assisted activities and therapies for children with autism

Parental perceptions of the psychosocial outcomes of equine-assisted activities and therapies for children with autism spectrum disorder in Japan: a phenomenological study

Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being. 2025 Dec 31;20(1):2585638. doi: 10.1080/17482631.2025.2585638. Epub 2025 Nov 19.
Authors
Namiko Kawamura 1 , Mayu Sakamoto 1 , Chikako Hashimoto 1 , Yuji Ozeki 2 , Kayoko Machida 3
Affiliations

1 School of Nursing, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Shiga, Japan.
2 School of Medicine, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Shiga, Japan.
3 Sapporo City University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan.

PMID: 41261078
DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2025.2585638

Abstract

Background: Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience challenges in social communication, behavioral regulation, and daily life adaptation. Equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAATs) have been implemented as complementary approaches to support psychosocial development. However, little is known about the experiences of parents in Japan whose children participate in EAATs.

Aim: The study aims to qualitatively explore how parents in Japan perceive the psychosocial outcomes of EAATs for their children with ASD. By focusing on parental perspectives, this study seeks to clarify how EAATs may contribute to the well-being of both children and their families, and to inform the development of supportive therapeutic environments.

Methods: This qualitative study employed a phenomenological approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten parents whose children with ASD had participated in EAATs for a minimum of six months. Thematic analysis was guided by Colaizzi’s method.

Results: Four primary developmental stages emerged from the analysis of children’s experiences: (1) Learning physical and mental harmony, (2) Exploring interests and strengthening bonds with oneself and others, (3) Inspiring independence and interaction, and (4) Building resilience and communication skills. Furthermore, parents reported three overarching outcomes from their own involvement: (1) Parental well-being and engagement through horseback riding, (2) Parental joy and recognition of their child’s growth, and (3) Fostering Family Connection and parent-to-parent interaction. Participant narratives illustrated these themes vividly, highlighting specific examples of behavioral and emotional change.

Conclusions: EAATs were perceived by parents as fostering not only the psychosocial growth of children with ASD but also enhancing parental well-being and family cohesion. To support children’s psychosocial development and promote the health and well-being of their parents, nurses could play a distinctive role by observing both psychological and physical changes, monitoring how these influence daily functioning and interpersonal relationships, and supporting parents in interpreting their child’s developmental progress.

Keywords: Equine-assisted activities and therapies; autism spectrum disorder; nursing; parental perspective; phenomenology; psychosocial development; qualitative research; well-being.