A Systematic Literature Review of Animal Assisted Interventions in Oncology (Part II):Theoretical Mechanisms and Frameworks

Abstract

Animal-assisted interventions (AAI) are a unique class of complementary medical treatments that can improve a patient’s quality of life, both physically and psychologically. Part I of this two-paper systematic literature review series focused on the study methods and quantitative results of researchers in this field. We continue this in-depth review here in Part II by discussing the common theories associated with AAI in the context of cancer. Of all the factors at work in human-animal interactions, researchers explicitly cite compatible animal personality, physical touch, physical movement, distraction/entertainment, and increased human interaction as the mechanisms responsible for the positive clinical outcomes observed in AAI. In various combinations, these mechanisms group under broader theoretical frameworks that attempt to fully explain the AAI context as it relates to cancer care. The social support hypothesis and the conception of a human-animal bond are the most referenced overarching frameworks. The cognitive activation theory of stress, the science of unitary human beings, and the self-object hypothesis are also referenced. We briefly consider other relevant theories commonly noted in the human-animal interactions literature that have the potential to clarify aspects of cancer-related AAI. We also discuss the neurobiological transduction mechanisms needed to connect theoretical frameworks and their mechanisms directly to the observed clinical outcomes. To advance the field, researchers should consider overarching theories with testable hypotheses when designing studies, and use consistent terminology when reporting results. This review lays a foundation for progress towards a unified theoretical framework and for effective treatment of the whole cancer patient.

A Systematic Literature Review of Animal-Assisted Interventions in Oncology (Part I): Methods and Results

“…The second part of this 2-paper systematic literature review focuses on the mechanisms and theoretical frameworks proposed by researchers in oncological AAI. 19 The detailed discussion herein seeks to be a guide for researchers investigating the topic of AAI in oncology and animal therapies more broadly. In time, AAIs will be a well-validated complementary treatment, with greater understanding of the impact on patient health and well-being.…”

“…In general, the second article focuses on the proposed mechanisms and theoretical frameworks underlying AAI study design. 19…”

Letter: The Choice of Control Conditions in Animal-Assisted Intervention Research

“…In contrast, interactions with the handler in AAI studies may be an active ingredient of the AAI intervention. 4 The handler is more than a conduit for the patient to interact with the animal. Thus, in AAI efficacy and effectiveness/pragmatic studies, it may make sense to control for attention from researchers but not for the human interaction that is part of an AAI session.…”