Date of Award

Spring 5-2012

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

EVMS School of Health Professions

Program/Concentration

Art Therapy

Committee Director

Cheryl L. Shiflett

Committee Member

Krista Curl

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to understand the experience of EMTs who incorporate the process of visual journaling each week in response to their professional responsibilities. In particular, this study aimed to understand EMTs’ perceptions of the usefulness of visual journaling and to determine possible themes from visual and written journal content.

Six participants, five male and one female, who were certified EMT-Basic (EMT-B), EMT-Intermediate (EMT-I) and Paramedics (EMT-P) volunteered to be part of this study. In addition to being an EMT, they were all also certified firefighters. All participants were aged 18 to 70 years and had met the EMT certification requirements of Virginia. Data was analyzed by the researcher and two research team members; two current art therapy students and a professional art therapist.

This study found several EMTs reported that visual journaling was helpful in coping with their work-related stress. Major stressors noted included coping/support systems, challenges in the profession, and feelings associated with the profession. Themes revealed from the EMTs’ visual journal included feelings associated with profession, coping/support system, types of emergency, challenges with the profession, dark imagery, and evidence of trauma. However, not all of the EMTs in this study felt that visual journaling reduced their work-related stress level.

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DOI

10.25777/1ves-6n50

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