title: Pet Therapy in Correctional Institutions: A Perspective From Relational-Cultural Theory.
abstract: In this article the authors apply Relational-Cultural Theory to pet therapy in correctional institutions. An important premise is that when pet therapy is used in prisons a symbiotic relationship develops between pets and prison inmates which, at the same time, improve their relationships with people themselves. Relational-Cultural Theory posits that relationships with individuals are not just a means to an end. Rather, good relationships promote growth and healthy development; they also cultivate reciprocal empathy. Hence, a major reason of suffering for most people is their experience of isolation; healing can occur in growth-fostering relationships.
authors.affiliation: a Nicholson School of Communication, University of Central Florida , Orlando , Florida , USA.
authors.forename: Rita
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Thomas
authors.affiliation: a Nicholson School of Communication, University of Central Florida , Orlando , Florida , USA.
authors.forename: Jonathan
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Matusitz
mesh_terms: D056447:Animal Assisted Therapy / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004645:Empathy; D006801:Humans; D011329:Prisoners / Q000523:psychology*; D011330:Prisons / Q000458:organization & administration*; D066269:Social Theory
keywords: Law; Relational-Cultural Theory; mutual empathy; personal growth; pet therapy; prisoners; relationships