Research of Hippotherapy and other equine-assisted therapies and activities are the primary focus of the National Hippotherapy Institute. Our research is based in educational and psychological theories.

 

The Hippotherapy environment is similar to that of sports or the classroom, but is unique in the sense that Hippotherapy requires the participant to develop a relationship with the horse in order for the entire process to be successful. Still, research from other domains can be utilized to drive Hippotherapy research.

 

This page contains links to articles that are of interest and offer similarities in the development of the psychomotor, cognitive, and affective domains that Hippotherapy participants might experience. The authors of the articles may or may not be associated with the National Hippotherapy Institute. Rather, the research they have conducted is noteworthy and should be considered in the development and continuance of Hippotherapy programs nationwide.

 

Current research endeavors include measuring self-efficacy of Hippotherapy participants, goal development and attainment, and social and emotional learning and application.