An experimental analysis of the effects of therapeutic horseback riding on the behavior of children with autism

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 waitlist 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. We also conducted intermittent probes of behavior at home. Therapeutic horseback riding did not produce systematic changes in affect, responding to others’ initiations, spontaneous initiations, off-task behavior, compliance, problem behavior, or performance on two standardized measures. Three of four participants’ posture improved during therapeutic horseback riding.

► Therapeutic horseback riding did not impact the behavior of children with autism. ► Three of four children showed improved posture during therapy. ► Parents reported that therapy did not produce behavior change in their children. ► Parents view therapeutic horseback riding as a fun leisure activity.