Mayra Padilla Cardoso
Papers
1
Total Citations
16
H-Index
1
About
Dr. Mayra Padilla Cardoso is a leading voice in humane education and child-animal interaction research, with a focus on how early interventions shape children’s understanding of animal welfare. Her most cited work, the 2021 study “Rabbit Rescuers,” rigorously evaluated a school-based program developed with the Scottish SPCA, demonstrating that a one-week intervention significantly enhanced 5- to 7-year-olds’ belief in animal minds, knowledge of rabbit care, and empathy toward animals. Garnering 16 citations, this paper has become a foundational reference for educators and policymakers designing evidence-based animal welfare curricula. Dr. Cardoso’s research uniquely bridges developmental psychology, education, and animal ethics, showing that even brief, structured programs can foster lasting prosocial attitudes. Her work is notable for its practical impact: the “Rabbit Rescuers” program is now used in schools across Scotland, influencing how young children learn to respect sentient beings. By quantifying the benefits of humane education, Dr. Cardoso has provided a replicable model for integrating animal welfare into early childhood education, making her a key figure in the growing field of child-animal studies.
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Top Papers
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