Incorporating Human–Animal Interaction Into Academic Stress Management Programs: Effects on Typical and At-Risk College Students’ Executive Function

Implementation of university-based animal-assisted stress-prevention programs is increasing despite limited knowledge about impacts on students’ academic success. This randomized trial (N = 309) examined the effects a 4-week program with varying levels human–animal interaction (HAI) and evidence-based content presentations executive functioning (EF). Effects were while considering moderating role risk status 121), based history failure, suicidal ideation, mental health, learning issues. Intent-to-treat analyses showed that at-risk students highest EF (Β 4.74, p .018) metacognition 4.88, .013) at posttest in condition featuring 100% HAI, remained 6 weeks later Global 4.48, .028; Β Metacognition 5.31,p .009). Since did not confer benefits for EF, even when offered combination universities should consider providing targeted emphasizing exposure to HAI.