Date of Award

Spring 5-22-2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MA - Master of Arts

Department

Expressive Therapies

Advisor

Sarah Hamil

Abstract

The efficacy of art therapy is explored in the context of improving the quality of life and mental health of individuals experiencing chronic pain. The exploration and examination of previous research on chronic pain and art therapy have led to various interconnected themes that tie together the needs of this population with the healing aspects of this treatment method. Through gathering data on both the negative impact of chronic pain and the healing aspects of art therapy and exploring research on chronic pain art therapy groups already in action, it can be deduced that future research may further illuminate the effectiveness of art therapy in improving overall quality of life and mental health. The use of art therapy in the context of treatment for adults with chronic pain should be viewed holistically, as part of a multidisciplinary approach that functions in a complementary way to individuals’ medical treatment and medications. The main goal of this treatment modality is to improve overall life functioning and mental health, with the potential of reducing physical pain sensations as mental health symptoms decrease.

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Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

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