Asociación entre Variables Sociodemográficas y Apego Afectivo entre Humanos y Animales de Compañía

Abstract

This research aims to identify the association between sociodemographic variables and attachment between companion animals and humans. The study is quantitative in nature with a descriptive correlational design. Human-animal attachment was assessed using the test Lexington Attachment to Pets Scale (LAPS-M). The sample consisted of 83 women and 48 men participated in the study (n= 131) between 18 to 70 years old, with and without children, from socioeconomic status 1 to 6, who lived with a dog, cat or any other pet.. The association between sociodemographic variables and attachment was examined. Interviews were also conducted with a veterinary doctor, a psychiatrist and a lawyer whose profession involves animals. The results showed that 73% of the participants who do not have children have a higher attachment, women obtained a higher score in attachment unlike men, and there is also a higher attachment to dogs 70% and the middle socioeconomic status obtained the highest score in attachment. Moreover, having a Companion animal brings many benefits, such as improvement of physical condition, reduction of stress, socializing, among others.