Can a week of therapeutic riding make a difference?—A pilot study

The objective of this research was to determine the effect of a five-day therapeutic riding day camp on children's anger, quality of life and perceived self-competence. Our study sample involved 16 able-bodied individuals (11±4.4 years) with no known physical or psychological disability, and no known history of psychotropic medications. The Children's Anger Inventory, Peds Quality of Life, and Self Perception Profile for Children were administered prior to riding on day one and after riding on day five. Results show that after five days of therapeutic riding camp, the total score of the anger inventory and scores for all sub-scales except frustration decreased significantly. No other differences were noted. Data analysis suggests that five days of therapeutic riding day camp can significantly impact on anger. These changes may be related to the child's relationship with the horse, the social environment of camp, the horse and riding, increased contact with nature, or a combination of these factors.