Pet in the therapy room: An attachment perspective on Animal-Assisted Therapy

TLDR

Attachment theory, pioneered by John Bowlby, offers a framework for understanding adjustment, psychopathology, and therapeutic change across the lifespan, guiding case conceptualization and treatment planning. The authors propose an attachment‑based model of animal‑assisted therapy that leverages the unique dynamics of human‑pet relationships. The model identifies clients’ unmet attachment needs, individual differences in attachment insecurity, coping, and responsiveness, and outlines strategies to promote adaptive attachment patterns and healthier relational modes.

Abstract

John Bowlby's ( 1973, 1980, 1982) attachment theory is one of the most influential theories in personality and developmental psychology and provides insights into adjustment and psychopathology across the lifespan. The theory is also helpful in defining the target of change in psychotherapy, understanding the processes by which change occurs, and conceptualizing cases and planning treatment (Daniel, 2006; Obegi & Berant, 2008; Sable, 2004 ; Wallin, 2007). Here, we propose a model of Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) based on attachment theory and on the unique characteristics of human-pet relationships. The model includes clients' unmet attachment needs, individual differences in attachment insecurity, coping, and responsiveness to therapy. It also suggests ways to foster the development of more adaptive patterns of attachment and healthier modes of relating to others.