Effects of early childhood experience on the subsequent preference for wild animals

Abstract

We examined how the experience of touching nature and creatures during childhood affects the subsequent preference for wild animals from a questionnaire survey targeting visually impaired people. Questionnaires were distributed to visually impaired organizations across the country and responses were obtained from 96 visually impaired persons. The results of the questionnaire, which asked responders whether they liked or disliked wild animals, showed that 50% liked wild animals, 40% disliked wild animals and 10% showed no interest. Our analysis of the responses indicated that the experience of touching nature and creatures between the ages of 4 to 8 years was associated with a liking for wild animals. This study indicates the importance of experience with nature and creatures in childhood regardless of whether or not there is a disability, and the need for a means to compensate for the lack of cognition associated with disability.