Positive Impact of Equine Programs and Education on Youth Development

This study was to describe the impact of equine program and education on youth participants in their development. Analyzed 16 reading materials such as journal, thesis, books and website related to equine program and education. Through analysis, it is found that equine program yields two positive effects on the development of positive youth, which are respectively the development of the characteristic of youths and also the positive development of life skills for youth. Among the development of positive characteristics in youth are such as self-esteem, confidence, responsibility, caring, passion, goal commitment, happiness, trust, and positive self-perception. Meanwhile, the developments of life skills for youth are such as critical thinking, communication, interpersonal skill, competence, ability, public speaking, decision-making, leadership, close friendship and self-discipline. The results of this study indicate that there are positive impacts of horse programs and education on youth development. Therefore, the government should support and continue to focus on the development of equine education and program in this country in order to generate more positive characteristic and positive life skill within teenagers.