The effects of interacting with fish in aquariums on human health and well-being: A systematic review.
The effects of interacting with fish in aquariums on human health and well-being: A systematic review.
Blog Article
Background
Most research into the health benefits of human-animal interaction has focused on species that interact physically with humans, such as dogs.This may be unsuitable for certain populations for reasons including accessibility and the risk Glass Cleaning Wipes of negative consequences to both the person and the animal.However, some research has associated viewing fish in aquariums with positive well-being outcomes; as there is no physical contact with the animal, this form of interaction carries less risk.At present, little is known about the specific benefits of human-fish interaction.Objectives
To explore current evidence relating to the psychological and physiological benefits of interacting with fish in aquariums.Methods
Systematic searches were conducted to identify relevant primary research of any design.All forms of interaction were considered, including keeping fish as companion animals and fish aquarium-based interventions."Non-live" alternatives, such as videos, were also considered.This review was conducted according to a registered protocol (PROSPERO ID: CRD42018090466).Results
Nineteen studies were included.Two provided tentative evidence that keeping home aquaria is associated with relaxation.The remaining studies involved novel interactions with fish in home or public aquariums.Outcomes relating to anxiety, relaxation and/or physiological stress were commonly assessed; evidence was mixed with both positive and null findings.Preliminary support was found for effects on mood, pain, nutritional intake and body weight, but not loneliness.All studies had methodological issues and risk of bias was either high or unclear.