Sociology of Therapy and Service Animals

Abstract

Syllabus and usage notes for "Sociology of Therapy and Service Animals." The focus of this course is on emotional support, therapy, and service animals (collectively referred to as support animals) in U.S. society as viewed from a sociological perspective. Emphasis is on understanding the role of non-human animals in society, disability identity,...

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Details

Subject Area(s):

Disabilities

Resource Type(s):

Syllabus

Class Level(s):

Any Level

Class Size(s):

Small

Usage Notes

Birmingham Southern College (BSC) is a small private liberal arts college that uniquely offers a 4-week "Exploration Term" every January. This "Exploration Term" is designed to enhance BSC’s liberal arts education through specialized seminars, internships, service-learning, research, and study travel. Professors frequently use it as an opportunity to...

Learning Goals and Assessments

Learning Goal(s):

1. Explain a sociological perspective and the various theoretical approaches used in the sociological study of support animals.
2. Examine and explain the differences between companion, emotional support, therapy, and service animals and the roles of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Fair Housing Act (FHA), and the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA).
3. Communicate and analyze support animals utilizing sociological concepts.

Goal Assessment(s):

1. Field Notes, Interview Notes, Hand in Paw Experience Summary, and "Until Tuesday" Reflection Paper.
2. In-Class Participation and Check-Ins/Check-Outs.
3. Engage in in-class debate presentations surrounding support animals confronting U.S. citizens and policymakers.