The Effectiveness of Arts in Trauma Intervention
Abstract
With many people throughout the world struggling with traumatic experiences often leading to to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), different ways of treating those symptoms have emerged. Expressive arts therapy is the method of utilizing different modalities of art to address specific issues. By framing PTSD and the role of the arts through Abraham Maslow’s “Hierarchy of Needs,” relevant research literature is discussed on the compatibility of the two beyond the level of self-actualization. By looking at three populations with high PTSD rates - refugees, victims of sexual violence, and incarcerated individuals - different art interventions are discussed along with their effectiveness. The literature review found that using the arts is effective among PTSD populations, especially as an enhancer of regular therapy. Several recommendations for further research are given, including the creation of a suitable measurement tool that effectively captures both the quantitative results with qualitative results in addition to ensuring culturally competent therapies.
Published
10-26-2015
How to Cite
ZUCH, Michael Thomas.
The Effectiveness of Arts in Trauma Intervention.
Vanderbilt Undergraduate Research Journal, [S.l.], v. 10, oct. 2015.
ISSN 1555-788X.
Available at: <http://vurj.vanderbilt.edu/index.php/vurj/article/view/4055>. Date accessed: 22 apr. 2018.
doi: https://doi.org/10.15695/vurj.v10i0.4055.
Section
Humanities and Social Sciences
Keywords
therapy; PTSD; trauma; arts; music; expressive arts therapy; interventions
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