dw.com
Greek Therapy Horses Face Funding Crisis After Pandemic
In Athens, Greece, Gentle Carousel Greece, founded in 2014, utilizes six miniature therapy horses to provide emotional support to over 12,000 children and adults in various settings; however, the organization faces financial difficulties due to the pandemic.
- How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected the financial stability and operational capacity of Gentle Carousel Greece?
- Gentle Carousel Greece highlights the therapeutic benefits of human-animal interaction, showcasing how equine-assisted therapy positively impacts physical, psychological, and social well-being. The program's success demonstrates the potential of animal-assisted interventions in improving mental health and providing comfort to vulnerable populations. The founder's struggle to maintain funding underscores the need for greater support for such initiatives.
- What is the impact of Gentle Carousel Greece's miniature horse therapy program on the well-being of children and adults in Greece?
- In Athens, Greece, Gentle Carousel Greece uses six miniature therapy horses to provide emotional support to over 12,000 children and adults in schools, hospitals, and care facilities since 2014. These specially trained horses promote valuable interactions, fostering joy and improving mental well-being. The program's founder faces financial challenges due to the pandemic's impact on related revenue streams.
- What are the long-term implications for access to equine-assisted therapy in Greece if Gentle Carousel Greece is unable to secure sustainable funding?
- The financial instability of Gentle Carousel Greece due to the pandemic raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of this vital program. Securing consistent funding is crucial to ensure continued access to equine-assisted therapy for those who benefit from it. The program's success suggests a potential model for similar initiatives in other communities facing similar challenges.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative emphasizes the heartwarming and emotionally positive aspects of the therapy horses' interactions, using emotionally charged language and focusing on individual success stories. The headline, "Therapy horses give hope in Greece," sets a positive frame before any details are presented. The article primarily showcases heartwarming moments, reinforcing this positive framing throughout.
Language Bias
The language used is largely positive and emotive, using words like "hope," "joy," "healing," and "comfort." While this enhances the narrative, it lacks the objectivity expected in news reporting. For example, instead of "healing caresses," a more neutral term such as "gentle touch" could be used. Similarly, phrases such as "magical garden" are evocative but subjective.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the positive impacts of the therapy horses, neglecting potential limitations or negative aspects of the program. While acknowledging financial difficulties, it doesn't explore potential downsides of equine-assisted therapy, such as allergic reactions, fear responses in some individuals, or the sustainability of the program's model. The piece omits discussion of alternative therapies or approaches for similar populations.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a largely positive view of the program without considering alternative perspectives or potential drawbacks. It implicitly frames equine-assisted therapy as a simple solution to complex emotional and mental health challenges, potentially overlooking the need for a multifaceted approach.
Sustainable Development Goals
The initiative uses equine therapy to improve the mental and emotional well-being of children and adults in difficult situations, contributing to better mental health outcomes. The article highlights positive impacts on children with autism and those who are generally afraid of animals, showing increased comfort and interaction. Equine therapy is shown to have positive physical, psychological, and social effects.