Exploring the Human-Bearded Dragon Animal Bond: A Qualitative Content Analysis of Reddit Posts
Date
2023
Authors
Lovell, Leana
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Abstract
Companion animals and the impact they may have on the lives of humans has been widely investigated by researchers. The current literature has overwhelmingly focused on traditional companion animals, such as cats and dogs. Despite many individuals owning non-traditional companion animals, the research surrounding the impact they have on humans remains understudied in comparison to traditional companion animals. Bearded dragons are currently the most popular type of reptiles owned as non- traditional companion animals, yet the biopsychosocial effects they may have on individuals remains relatively unknown. The present study, therefore, aimed to answer the two following research questions "What do people post to a subreddit forum dedicated to bearded dragon owners?" followed by, "How do individuals experience the human-animal bond with their bearded dragon companions?" The website Reddit was systematically searched for relevant online subreddit communities that were targeted towards bearded dragon owners. Posts made by individuals to the chosen subreddit were collected. A conventional qualitative content analysis was performed on 2,903 posts, producing five overarching categories: The Human-Animal Bond between Bearded Dragons and Humans, Use of Bearded Dragon Reddit Forum, Health and Medical Concerns, Psychological Effects, and Social Effects. Findings provide insight into how individuals with bearded dragons use and engage with the online reddit forum as well as how they experience the human-bearded dragon animal bond. Novel findings regarding the biopsychosocial effects bearded dragons have on humans as companion animals are presented. Further research is needed to explore the unique bonds formed between humans and non-traditional companion animals, specifically regarding bearded dragons and the potential positive impact they have on human life.
School/Discipline
School of Psychology
Dissertation Note
Thesis (B.PsychSc(Hons)) -- University of Adelaide, School of Psychology, 2023
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