The WSU autism research study needs autistic children or those with another pervasive developmental disorder aged 12 and under who live in the Pullman area to participate free of charge. The proposed research is a two-year project. The study's lead researcher says there are great misunderstandings by the public when it comes to autism and animals. Unfortunately, this type of outcome is fairly unrealistic.
Martin prefers to view the animals as tools assisting the counselor.
A child's excitement over an animal can be transformed into benefits such as increased communication with their therapist. Each 10-15 minute meeting will be videotaped. A formal list of identical questions and activities for each child, with some flexibility, will be used. Three situations will be studied throughout the project. In one, Martin will attempt to encourage pro-social behavior in the child while playing with a toy such as a large ball.