This study proposes to explore the behavioral manifestations that emerge during the initial moments of interaction between horses and children with autism, with an emphasis on ethological and relational dynamics.


Previous research on interspecies interactions and horse-assisted therapies indicates that the presence of animals can enhance communicative behaviors in children with autism. Horses appear to act as facilitators of social expression, and the initial moments of interaction are crucial for emotional regulation and communication, as they allow for the observation of how the relationship begins to develop.


The aim of the study is to analyze individual behaviors of the child (distance, steps toward the horse, eye contact, gestures, touch, posture, vocalizations, and latency), and horse (ear position, head/neck posture, body movement, olfactory/contact behaviors, signs of relaxation or tension, and latency), combined with interspecific behaviors (exchange sequence, reciprocity, quality of approach, co-occurrence of positive signals, and progression of the sequence) throughout the interactions.


Structured as an observational and longitudinal study, this research will include video recordings and ethological coding of both individual and relational behaviors. The sample will consist of 10 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and 3 horses involved in equine-assisted therapy activities. Over the course of 12 behavioral observation sessions, we will analyze the initial phase of approach and the first establishment of contact between the child and the horse in each encounter, documenting the behaviors that emerge during this specific moment.


This project seeks to understand how interspecific engagement between the child and the horse occurs, identifying factors that facilitate or hinder the development of the relationship, communication, and bonding, providing a foundation for future studies and practical applications in equine-assisted therapy, animal welfare, and the promotion of social skills in children with autism.