The effects of group art therapy on mood in depressed individuals living in a nursing home
by Rafidi, Rita S., M.A., HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY, 2009, 34 pages; 1478273

Abstract:

Geriatric depression is a common but frequently unrecognized or inadequately treated condition in the elderly population. Symptoms in persons over 65 often manifest and display differently than in people under the age of 65, and a lack of knowledge of symptomology in this population can lead to improper treatment and often death. Art therapy, a discipline combining counseling, psychology and creativity, is commonly used in conjunction with other methods of treatment for depression. Engaging in creative experiences has been proven to have positive effects on the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of those who participate. This research study explores whether participating in small art therapy groups on a weekly basis has a direct effect on the overall mood of older individuals diagnosed with depression, immediately following their engagement in creative activities. Subjects self-rated their mood before and immediately following each session on a Likert scale ranging from negative affect to positive affect. The researcher found that individuals being treated for depression rated their mood as the same or more positive immediately following the group art therapy sessions as they did at the start of each session. The outcome of this research supports the researcher’s hypothesis.

 
AdviserDeborah L. Elkis-Abuhoff
SchoolHOFSTRA UNIVERSITY
SourceMAI/ 48-06, p. , Aug 2010
Source TypeThesis
SubjectsMental health; Gerontology; Alternative medicine; Clinical psychology
Publication Number1478273
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