An Experimental Analysis of the Effects of Therapeutic Horseback Riding on the Behavior of Children with Autism

Abstract

The current study experimentally evaluated the effects of therapeutic horseback riding on the behavior of children with autism using a multiple baseline across participants design and a wait-list control group for comparison purposes. Participants were observed weekly in an after school program during four center-based activities and during therapeutic horseback riding lessons. They were also observed during home visit probes throughout the study. Self-report data as well as parent surveys were used to corroborate direct observation methods. Time-series results indicate that despite anecdotal parent reports of improvements, therapeutic horseback riding did not have an effect on affect, language, off-task behavior, compliance, or problem behavior; however, participants' posture did improve. The current study supports the claims that therapeutic horseback riding does not meet the criteria for evidence-based practices. Implications for this study within evidence-based practices, single-case design, and therapeutic horseback riding literature are provided, as well as directions for future research.