Overview of Dogs Training Programs in Correctional Institutions

Abstract

Positive opinions about impact that relations with animals have on participating humans were the main reason for introducing animal-based resocialization programs in correctional institutions. As form of occupational therapy, they aim at increasing and improving social and psychological skills of imprisoned individuals. They aim at creating and increasing empathy, improving communication and its effectiveness, building sense of responsibility and patience. Participants of such programs underline their positive impact on their well-being and subjective sense of wellness. In this text I present short history of using relations with animals in improving psychological and social competencies of humans. I discuss also positive effects of such programs for effectiveness of correctional institutions.