Citation

Shiroff JJ, Gray K, Santulli GM, DiDonato S, Kelly PJ, Fulford JOR. Psychiatr. Res. Clin. Pract. 2023; 5(2): 40-50.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, American Psychiatric Association Publishing)

DOI

10.1176/appi.prcp.20220029

PMID

37293143

PMCID

PMC10245458

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This qualitative research was conducted to add to the body of knowledge that supports the benefits of service dogs (SDs), as a tertiary treatment modality, to veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and/or traumatic brain injury (TBI).

METHODS: This grounded theory research design utilized open-ended, semi-structured interviews with veterans (n = 10) who were using SDs as a treatment modality for PTSD and/or TBI. Transcripts were analyzed using NVivo qualitative software until data saturation was achieved.

RESULTS: Results from the data analysis identified 4 major themes with concurrent subthemes. The most prominent themes were functional status, impact of a SD, recognition of symptoms of PTSD and/or TBI by the SD, and barriers and challenges to the acquisition of a SD. Participants reported that the SD increased socialization and was a positive adjunct to treatment modalities for PTSD and/or TBI.

CONCLUSIONS: Our study highlights the benefits of using a SD as a tertiary treatment for PTSD and/or TBI in veterans. Veterans in our study articulated the benefits of using a SD as a tertiary treatment option, and the need to make this a standard treatment option for all veterans who suffer from PTSD and/or TBI.

Language: en