Date Approved

6-6-2023

Embargo Period

6-8-2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Higher Education

Department

Educational Services and Leadership

College

College of Education

Advisor

Stephanie Lezotte, Ph.D.

Committee Member 1

Andrew Tinnin, Ed.D.

Committee Member 2

Tyrone McCombs, Ph.D.

Subject(s)

Psychiatric service dogs; Neurodiversity; College students with disabilities

Disciplines

Accessibility | Higher Education | Psychology

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine neurodivergent students in higher education and their experience with The Shreiber Family Pet Therapy Program at Rowan University to investigate whether therapy dogs reduce anxiety levels and provide relaxation. In addition, this study provides recommendations for The Shreiber Family Pet Therapy program at Rowan University to promote the program and its purpose on campus. These resources are important when discussing the neurodivergent student population in higher education, which this research study discusses, based on previous research and the results found from this quantitative approach. This study also makes recommendations for Rowan University and how the pet therapy program can be promoted more and also attend larger public campus events like career fairs and other events.

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