Title: Equine-Assisted Positively Fit: A Family-Based Obesity Intervention for Rural Youth

Investigator: Tristen Hefner, M.S.

University: Texas Tech University

Abstract: This study aims to establish further the fidelity and empirical support for an adapted family-based weight management treatment for rural youth, Equine-Assisted Positively Fit (EAPF). This intervention integrates a preexisting family-based program into an equine-assisted therapy setting to clarify program content through animal interactions and bolster participant engagement. As a result, we anticipate youth will experience improved self-reported psychosocial outcomes, such as self-efficacy, hope, and quality of life. Further, we anticipate seeing improvements in objectively measured physical activity and sleep. Finally, we expect that facilitator treatment adherence will be high, suggesting better treatment fidelity and outcome validity.