Validation by expert groups of the conceptual and structural dimensions in the AcompdogSMP+ nursing program: a dog-assisted therapy to promote positive mental health

Abstract

Introduction: AcompdogSMP+ is a nursing program for the promotion of positive mental health using a dog-assisted therapy for individuals with severe mental disorders.

Objective: To validate the content validity of the four conceptual and the three structural dimensions that shape AcompdogSMP+.

Design and Methods: Three expert groups with a total of 28 participants were convened, associated with the three core areas of the program (i.e., the multifactorial model of positive mental health, the “animal-assisted therapy” nursing interventions taxonomy, and the animal-assisted therapy as a complementary intervention model). The qualitative data were analyzed using an existing text analysis method, and the notes taken by the moderator and an assistant. The quantitative data were analyzed through the content validity index (CVI) for 68 different items that made up the seven dimensions of the AcompdogSMP+ program, through the data obtained from an ad hoc Likert-type scale.

Results: The degree of agreement of the experts was complemented with the values obtained in the results of the quantitative data. CVI values of virtually all items were excellent (greater than 0.78). Only one item had a CVI considered good (I-CVI = 0.68). The values of the Scale Content Validity Index (S-CVI/Ave) ranged from 0.88 to 1.00, with most of the indices being excellent (above 0.90).

Conclusion: The results supported the content validity of the seven dimensions, of the AcompdogSMP+ program. The validation might allow its clinical validation, through its implementation in healthcare practice, as well as the evaluation of its effectiveness.

Implication for Practice: To our knowledge, this is the first animal-assisted therapy nursing program to promote positive mental health validated by expert judgment. By confirming the content validity of each dimension, robustness and empirical evidence is given to integrate the program into clinical practice with confidence, offering a structured and complementary intervention aimed at improving mental health outcomes and overall well-being of patients with severe mental disorders. This could lead to greater patient engagement, improved therapeutic outcomes, and a more holistic approach to mental health.