Psychology 9-1 GCSE - 

7.2.2 - Van Houtte and Jarvis (1995) The Role of Pets in Preadolescent Psychosocial Development:

Aims -

To investigate the impact of pet ownership on adolescent personality provided evidence in terms of self-esteem and a more positive self-concept.

Procedures - 

130 pupils aged 8-13 white american, divided into two groups, pet owners and non pet owners and then matched on marital status, wealth and siblings.

Results -

1. Higher self esteem was reported in pet owners than non pet owners.

2. 11 years old with pets had more positive self concept.

3. Higher autonomy was reported by pet owners of all ages.

Conclusions - 

Pet owning adolescents would report higher levels of autonomy and self esteem than non pet owners. Pets provide unconditional positive regard for pet owners. 

Strengths -

• The results of the experiment were content with the hypothesis.
• Well known scales were used which is a reliable way of measuring.
• Can be used to improve self concept and self esteem.
• Consent to the study was given by parents.

Weaknesses - 

• Samples were not representative, only white american teenagers,
• Students may not have been honest in responses. 
• Difficult for them to self report their own self esteem.
• The study tries to assess self esteem and self concept on simple scales but these are very complex emotional issues.
• Potential harm with questions being asked.