The use of visual art therapy with adolescents affected by trauma

Abstract

This study explores the use of visual art therapy with traumatised adolescents. A literature review sheds light on the concepts of “visual art therapy” and “psychological trauma”, by exploring the therapeutic nature of visual art as a technique aimed at addressing the effects of trauma in the lives of adolescents. An empirical study including seven voluntary and purposefully selected participants demonstrates the efficacy of using visual art therapy with adolescents affected by trauma. Data gathered through observation, questionnaires, and interviews is qualitatively interpreted and analysed. The research findings are presented accordingly. Based on the empirical investigation, it is established that visual art can be used as a valuable therapeutic technique in the lives of adolescents affected by trauma.