The Role of Companion Animals and Its Relationship to the Well-Being, Happiness, and Loneliness of College Students Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic

Ruth Andrea   Esquillo,; Ma. Ydeza Leila   Enriquez,; Maria Roberta Beatrice   Luciano,; Aron Paul   Bernardo,; Airish Patrick   Koh,

The Role of Companion Animals and Its Relationship to the Well-Being, Happiness, and Loneliness of College Students Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic

Ruth Andrea Esquillo | Ma. Ydeza Leila Enriquez | Maria Roberta Beatrice Luciano | Aron Paul Bernardo | Airish Patrick Koh

Abstract:

This research investigates the relationship between the role of companion animals in the well-being, happiness, and loneliness of college students during the pandemic. The research also investigates how pets positively or negatively connect with their owners. Researchers relate the attachment theory to the level of well-being, happiness, and loneliness of the participants. The study used a descriptive correlational design to further understand and elaborate on the results of the study on whether the independent variable has a relationship or significance on the participant’s well-being, happiness, and loneliness. With the use of the convenience sampling technique, two hundred and forty-one (241) participants were given the survey questionnaire, including 58 survey items that comprises CCAS, WHO-5, OHQ, and DJGLS. The null hypothesis is initially at a 0.05 level of significance and was tested to find out if there is a relationship between the role of companion animals and well-being, happiness, and loneliness. With the use of Pearson R Statistical Analysis, results showed that there is a significant relationship between the role of companion animals on the well-being, happiness, and loneliness of college students that own a pet during the pandemic. Participants are found to have a moderately high level of well-being and high-level happiness and loneliness. Recommendations include alternative ways in case potential owners have allergy complications or other external factors that prevent them from having their own pet companion. Researchers also recommend further research on the existing relationship between companion animals and pet-owners’ general well-being, happiness, and loneliness. And, further assessment and a bigger population of respondents are advised.