Women's experiences of change through art therapy. Issue 3 (2nd September 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Holmqvist, Gärd Marie-Louise; Jormfeldt, Henrika; Larsson, Ingrid; Lundqvist Persson, Cristina
• Is Part Of: Arts & health. Volume 9:Issue 3(2017)
• Page Start: 199
• Page End: 212
• Publication Date: 2017-09-02
• Subjects: Art therapy -- Expressive Therapies Continuum [ETC] -- change -- turning point; Arts -- Therapeutic use -- Periodicals; Medical care -- Periodicals; Public health -- Periodicals; 615.8515
• DOI: 10.1080/17533015.2016.1225780
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1753-3015

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Art therapy is based on the conception that image making in a therapeutic context may facilitate processes of change. Methods: A semi-structured interview with focus on the image was conducted with 17 women in order to explore change, after which a qualitative content analysis was performed. Results: The women experienced internal change as a sudden, unexpected turning point or as a more gradual process, although some reported no internal change whatsoever. Five themes reflecting the women's experiences of what was important for internal change emerged: Trust in the therapist, Belief in the method, Creative impulse, Meaning of the image and The art therapy process. Conclusions: Art therapy may contribute to change in the sense of moving from an inadequate to a healthier state. Even when art therapy does not lead to internal change it may be supportive and provide short-term help in everyday life.