Art Therapy With Adolescents Article Review Sample

The article seeks to explain how art therapy is a useful tool in helping with psychological stress related to adolescence period. It explains how it is put in use by expressing their emotional turmoil through art work which is more physical and a less verbal way of communication. In addition, it helps to build on elements of self-expression in a non-judgmental approach. This is an important tool especially when dealing with sexually abused children as it ‘shows’ rather than explains the areas where the juvenile is most affected.
It is difficult for a mother or a parent to start a conversation about such a sensitive topic such as sexual abuse. Art therapy combined with verbal dialogue helps one to find a more successful approach towards healing. The process involves non artistic art which is made up of metaphors and narrative to externalize an underlying form of behavior. Once this is achieved, the client has detached him/herself with the problem and thus has a clearer perspective on how to deal with the problem. It counteracts the stigma associated with seeing a ‘shrink’ which in most cases has been associated with severe mental related issues as it has been portrayed in movies.
Each form of media, for example oil pastels clay and painting assists in self-expression. Its non-judgmental approach is respectful in expressing one’s own personal projections. It is characterized by neutrality which helps form a connection with the individual who at this point sees the world and humanity as being mostly against him. Improvement can be assessed in each session as the art will be making continuous change. The images created cushion the child as it creates a certain type of boundary in which they can vent their rage.
It also works against abuse and secrets as most often than not the adolescent has been threatened to maintain silence by the perpetrator. This is because no statement had restricted the adolescent not to draw thus providing a lee-way that can reveal the forbidden subject. With the information above, mothers can then channel distraught children in a secure environment. Family art therapy at this point is not confrontational as it does not threaten an individual in any particular way.
In conclusion, art therapy helps distinguish family conflicts while avoiding misunderstandings that regular therapy brings with it. Lastly, it empowers an individual with a voice through art that adults can use to understand their siblings. Hostility is avoided as it gives equal rights to the adolescent in the course of discussion.