Katharina Buczek
A new study conducted by researchers in South Korea revealed that playing with pups can actually modify our brain waves, leading to increased relaxation and focus while also diminishing stress and depression.
These findings highlight the promising role pet therapy could play in boosting mental health.
During the study, the effects of dog-human interactions on the participants’ brain waves were thoroughly analyzed, revealing a multitude of positive outcomes. The results strongly suggest that “animal-assisted interventions” (AAI) could offer significant benefits for people, according to the researchers.
Led by scientists from Konkuk University in Seoul, this study stands as one of the pioneering efforts to quantify brainwave patterns triggered by various kinds of interactions between humans and dogs. It provides a scientific basis for the widely speculated therapeutic advantages of spending time with our furry friends.
For hundreds of years, dogs have been much more than mere pets; they’ve served as loyal companions, helpers, and guardians, developing in tandem with humans and becoming an integral part of our existence.
While earlier research has highlighted the physical and emotional perks of dog interaction, like higher oxytocin levels, lower cortisol levels, and a diminished chance of heart-related ailments, this particular study adopts a novel angle.
It investigates the impact of various dog-related activities—including play, walks, feeding, and massage—on our brain’s electrical signals, as captured by electroencephalograms (EEGs).
The research included 30 healthy individuals who participated in eight different activities with a dog, such as walking, playing, feeding, grooming, massaging, taking photos, hugging, and just being introduced to the dog.
During these interactions, EEGs recorded the brainwave patterns of the participants, specifically looking at alpha and beta power spectra. These are measures of the brain’s relaxation and concentration levels.
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