Growing Empathy Through Art Therapy and Relationships
Author Information
Author(s): L. Blake Peeples, Benjamin C. Thompson, Jackie B. Tucker, LaDerrick Smith, Amy Brown, Keisha D. Carden, Anne Halli-Tierney, Angel C. Duncan, Neelum T. Aggarwal, Jessica Y. Allen, Rebecca S. Allen, Daniel C. Potts
Primary Institution: The University of Alabama
Hypothesis
Does the Bringing Art to Life (BATL) program enhance empathy and positive attitudes toward older adults and people with dementia among psychology and pre-healthcare students?
Conclusion
The BATL program significantly increases empathy and positive attitudes toward older adults and people with dementia among participating students.
Supporting Evidence
- Students in the BATL program showed significant increases in empathy and positive attitudes compared to students in traditional psychology courses.
- Qualitative analysis of student journals revealed themes of relationship building and existential awareness.
- Art therapy facilitated meaningful social interactions between students and people with dementia.
Takeaway
Students who participated in art therapy with people with dementia learned to understand and care for them better, making them feel more connected and less afraid of aging.
Methodology
A sequential mixed methods study involving quantitative surveys and qualitative journal entries from students participating in the BATL program.
Potential Biases
Potential social desirability bias in self-reported surveys.
Limitations
Selection bias due to self-selection of students into courses and lack of diversity in geographic reach.
Participant Demographics
367 students, mean age 19.36, 80% women, varying prior experience with dementia.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website