Equine assisted therapy for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders

Equine assisted therapy is presented as one of possible approaches when helping individuals with special needs. This work includes explanation of basic conceptions from the fields of equine assisted therapy and autism spectrum disorders. Motives for inclusion individuals with autism spetrcum disorders to this form of therapy are presented. Study was planned based on presented findings and carried out during school year 2009/2010. The purpose of this study is to ascertain possible effects of equine assisted therapy on quality of life of individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Six participants have shown significant or minor progress in six chosen fields: socialization, communication, emotional and physical tension, attention, following instructions and tactile hipersensitivity