A new study concludes that pets promote children’s social skills and self-esteem.
Growing up with a pet can provide educational, emotional, and social benefits for children and teens, according to a study published last week. Young people who have pets tend to develop higher self-esteem, be less lonely, and improve their social skills. This research supports arguments that household pets can contribute to healthy child development.
The University of Liverpool study by Dr. Carri Westgarth of the Institute for Infections and Global Health conducted a thorough review and quality assessment of studies investigating the effects of pet ownership on the emotional, formative or behavioral development of children and adolescents.
“Crucial ages for the pet’s positive impact on self-esteem appear to be higher in children younger than 6 years, and in preteens and teens 10 years and older. Dogs and cats are generally regarded as the best providers of social support, perhaps because of their superior level of interaction and being reciprocal compared to other pets, “said Rebecca Purewal, lead author. “In both western and non-western cultures, pets provide some psychological support, helping younger people feel good about themselves and have a positive image of themselves.”
“Patterns between subpopulations and age groups indicate that companion animal have the potential to promote healthy child and adolescent development,” said WALTHAM researcher Nancy Gee, who is co-author of the study.