A Pilot Study on Animal-Assisted Intervention in Correctional Settings
Recruiting now · Not applicable
Conditions studied: Psychological Wellbeing, Animal-assisted Intervention
In brief
Mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress are particularly prevalent among incarcerated individuals and are considered risk factors for recidivism. Leveraging the natural human-animal bond, animal-assisted intervention (AAI) offers a less threatening alternative to engage incarcerated individuals and address their mental health needs. As an initial effort to help promote rehabilitative security in Hong Kong, the current study examines the acceptability and effectiveness of a brief animal-assisted program among offenders in local secured facilities.
Key facts
- Study ID
- NCT06968351
- Run by
- The University of Hong Kong
- People needed
- 156
- Starts
- 2025-06-02
- Expected to finish
- 2025-12-31
- Last updated by the study team
- 2025-08-01
Who can join
Age: 18 and older. Sex: any. Healthy volunteers: accepted.
You may qualify if…
- persons-in-custody
- aged 18 or older
- understand Cantonese
You may not qualify if…
- an allergy, a fear, or a dislike toward dogs
- a history of aggression toward animals
- a criminal history involving animals
- a history of neurodevelopmental disorders
- active psychosis or mania
- active suicidality
Where it is running
- Hong Kong Correctional Services Department — Hong Kong, Hong Kong (enrolling)
Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov
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