Art and adaptation to psychosis: art therapy as a treatment method, drawings as a research method

Attard, Angelica (2015). Art and adaptation to psychosis: art therapy as a treatment method, drawings as a research method. University of Birmingham. Clin.Psy.D.

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Abstract

This thesis comprises two research papers. The first is a systematic review which examines the effectiveness of Art Therapy (AT) for people with psychosis, and whether it is a suitable and meaningful intervention to them. A systematic search of the literature resulted in 16 articles which were critically reviewed. There was inconclusive evidence for the efficacy of AT due to the limited and poor quality research. However, AT was considered beneficial and meaningful by people with psychosis and art therapists. The use of AT for this population cannot be discounted though better quality research is needed to guide clinical practice. The second component is an empirical paper that explores the meaning of adaptation to First Episode of Psychosis (FEP), through creating images. Ten participants engaged in an interview where they created an image of their experience. The data were analysed through Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis and image analysis. Adaptation to FEP entailed challenges and growth as participants’ came to terms with FEP, reformed their life and re-evaluated their identity and place in the world. This research adds to the recovery and growth literature and highlights the benefits of visual research methods. Drawings produced powerful data which facilitated understanding of the phenomenon.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Clin.Psy.D.

Supervisor(s):