Examining the Efficacy of Equine Assisted Learning for Public Safety Personnel with PTSD

Public safety personnel (PSP) (e.g., police, paramedics) ensure the safety of our communities and are at risk of experiencing traumatic events. In a recent study, 44% of surveyed PSPs screened positive for a mental health condition, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We must understand the impact of PTSD on PSP and how to treat it so we can promote PSP health to keep Canadian communities safe. Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) is an intervention that involves unmounted interactions with a horse with the guidance of an equine specialist. Recent research conducted with military Veterans with PTSD shows that EAL might be effective in reducing PTSD symptoms but no one has tested EAL with PSP who have PTSD. We will investigate the effectiveness of EAL in reducing PTSD symptoms among PSP with PTSD by conducting a randomized clinical trial where PSP participants are assigned to one of two groups: one that receives EAL treatment and one that does not. We will compare these two groups to see whether they differ in PTSD symptom severity.

Faculty Supervisor:

Margaret McKinnon

Student:

Partner:

Homewood Research Institute

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

McMaster University

Program: