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The article Mans best friend by Aydin et al. explores how using companion animals can psychologically help socially isolated people. The research hypothesis is that a companion animal can minimize the adverse mental effects of social isolation. For this, an experiment was designed in which two groups of people worked in social isolation with and without dogs. Fifty women were randomly assigned to groups with different exclusion statuses (high and low) and with and without dogs indoors (Aydin et al., 2012). The hypothesis of the researchers was confirmed since socially excluded participants who had no contact with animals showed a low level of life satisfaction, a decrease in self-esteem, a decrease in life meaningfulness, and an increase in anxiety (Aydin et al., 2012). The mere presence of an animal, whether people were allowed to play with it or not, was enough to minimize the negative effects of social isolation.
Aydin et al. concluded that according to the results of the study, psychologists and medical care workers could use dogs for therapy and support for socially isolated people. For example, companion animals may be used in nursing homes or rehabilitation centers where the patients communication with other people is limited due to their condition. This will help support mental health and improve the process of treatment and care. In addition, Aydin et al. noted that more research is needed on the effects of different pets, not just dogs.
In my opinion, the study was initially based on the universal aspects of mental health and development the need for social communication. Scientists have chosen the most social animal a dog, which is emotionally understandable and accessible to human perception. They might have gotten different results if they had chosen a cat or a parrot. The non-contact and antisocial nature of cats, for example, could increase some peoples anxiety.
Reference
Aydin, N., Krueger, J. I., Fischer, J., Hahn, D., Kastenmüller, A., Frey, D., & Fischer, P. (2012). Mans best friend: How the presence of a dog reduces mental distress after social exclusion. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 48(1), 446449.
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