Why Would an OT Practitioner Choose to Incorporate a Dog

question 6

Multiple Choice

Why would an OT practitioner choose to incorporate a dog in a session with a child who has behavioral and emotional difficulties?

• A) The practitioner has not thought this through clearly; the child may hurt the animal.
• B) The practitioner hopes the animal will scare the child into behaving positively.
• C) The practitioner has nowhere to bring her dog on that day.
• D) Animals can be calming and help children develop concern and self-confidence.

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Definitions:

Greek Theories

Philosophical and scientific ideas originating from ancient Greece, which have significantly influenced Western thought.

Displacement

In psychology, a defense mechanism where an individual shifts negative feelings or behaviors from the original source to a more acceptable or less threatening target.

Repression

A defense mechanism where unpleasant thoughts, memories, or desires are unconsciously excluded from conscious thought.

Projection

A defense mechanism in which an individual attributes their own unacceptable thoughts, feelings, and motives to another person.