Thesis

The Effects of Domesticated Pets to the

Emotional-Well Being of City Dweller Students

Nestle E. Banares

Mary Rose Bellen

Anne Che G. Garalde

Johnchie R. Resco

Eunize Shusmita Y. Rivas

Adamson University

February 13, 2014

The Effects of Domesticated Pets to the

Emotional-Well Being of City Dweller Students

Introduction

For thousands of years, animals have played a significant role in human’s lives. This has often been a symbiotic relationship where we have something to offer the animal and in return the animal has something to offer us, both practically but also for companionship too. Sharing homes, shelters, enriching lives, caring for and protecting their owners; such a close relationship might have an effect of the mental health and wellbeing of their owner. The emotional bond between owner and pet can be as intense as that in many human relationships and may confer similar psychological benefits.

Pets are good sources of social and emotional support for everyone, not just people facing health challenges. Researcher from Miami University in Ohio observed evidence that pet owners fared better, both in terms of well-being outcomes and individual differences, than non-owners on several dimensions. Specifically, pet owners had greater self-esteem, were more physically fit, tended to be less lonely, were more conscientious, and were more extroverted, tended to be less fearful and tended to be less preoccupied than non-owners. In fact, a growing body of published scientific research shows that having an animal companion – cats and dogs in particular — improves both our emotional and physical well-being. These studies have connected pet ownership with favorable health effects ranging from lower blood pressure to reduced anxiety levels.

Anyone who has ever cared for a companion animal understands their role in emotional health. Pets offer unconditional love and attention; they make us laugh, help us relax and divert us from day-to-day concerns....