Summer Farrelly: Understanding Social Dynamics Through Chickens
Summer Farrelly, a 19-year-old student living with autism, discovered a unique way to understand human social dynamics through observing chickens. Growing up, Farrelly found interactions with people challenging but developed a strong connection with chickens from a young age, observing their intricate social hierarchy and individual personalities.
Program Development
Farrelly realized the parallels between chicken flock dynamics and human playground interactions, using these observations to better navigate social situations.
At age 12, Farrelly developed an animal-assisted learning program named "Chickens to Love" and authored a book under the same title.
Program Objectives
The program utilizes chickens to educate young autistic individuals on social dynamics, self-advocacy, and emotional self-regulation. A key component involves observing chicken behaviors to help participants identify and understand their own emotions, recognizing how their actions affect others.
Farrelly emphasizes that the program aims to foster mutual understanding of diverse thought processes and communication styles, rather than solely focusing on neurodivergent individuals adapting to neurotypical norms.
Impact and Expansion
Farrelly currently studies zoology at the University of New England and works virtually with disability support groups and individual support workers to facilitate the "Chickens to Love" program. While chickens are the primary focus due to their effectiveness, the program can be adapted to incorporate other animals.
Summer's mother, Cynthia Farrelly, also received an autism diagnosis at age 39.