Measuring the efficacy of art therapy on general health
Authors
Greaney, Rachael
Issue Date
2019
Degree
Higher Diploma in Arts in Psychology
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
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Abstract
This study examines the impact Art Therapy can have on the general health of adults. Art therapy is defined as a creative method of expression used as a therapeutic technique, which could include attending an art therapist or using an art journal. The control group (n= 88) and Art Therapy group (n=42) completed a survey which included questions estimating demographics, participation in Art Therapy and meditation, level of Art Therapy and meditation activity per week and the General Health Questionnaire. Statistical analysis revealed that there were significant correlations between the frequency of meditation, support from friends, optimism and control and GHQ scores. T-tests showed that the mean GHQ scores for those that do Art therapy versus those that do not, were significantly different. T-tests showed that the mean GHQ scores for those that do meditation versus those that do not, were significantly different. A one-way ANOVA showed that there were significant differences in mean scores for those that do both Art Therapy and meditation and those that do either Art Therapy or meditation. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that control was the highest predictor of variances in GHQ score, with Art Therapy in second place. Non therapy types accounted for 37% of the variance in GHQ scores, with therapy types accounting for 7% of the variance in GHQ scores. The small sample obtained for those that take part in art therapy leads to the issue of generalization.