Edge Hill University
Exploring adolescents’ embodied experiences of creative arts therapy in a residential centre in Taiwan
Background: Children who have experienced adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) (e.g. neglect, domestic violence and dysfunction) may suffer poor physical and mental health in adulthood. Adolescence is a critical, challenging developmental period; ACEs exacerbate these challenges particularly in terms of adolescents developing their sense of self/identity.
Creative arts therapy (CAT) is an innovative approach involving a strong focus on bodily sensing by integrating arts to facilitate healing. CAT may be an effective approach to support adolescents who have been exposed to ACE but the evidence base for the therapeutic process needs to be further clarified. For pragmatic reasons, my study focuses on one therapeutic factor, embodiment (a complex concept that includes awareness of mind-body-self), within one discipline, art psychotherapy of CAT. Embodiment and ACEs theoretically underpin my work.
Aims: To explore the embodied experiences of adolescents receiving art psychotherapy in a residential centre in Taiwan and to understand the therapeutic process of CAT.
Methods: Ten adolescents (12-18 years old; 5 males, 5 females) were recruited and joined a CAT group. This qualitative study used participant observation, art-based body mapping, and interviews (group-based with adolescents; one-to-one with adolescents and an art psychotherapist). Data analysis uses reflexive thematic analysis.
Original contribution to knowledge: The anticipated contributions include deeper insights in how CAT may contribute to promoting a stronger sense of self for adolescents who have experienced ACEs and how embodiment may be influential in this process. Additionally, recommendations for the use of CAT in adolescents may be able to be generated.
Ying-Chih Chen’s Edge Hill University student profile