Date of Award

Spring 5-2009

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

EVMS School of Health Professions

Program/Concentration

Art Therapy

Committee Director

Kay Stovall

Abstract

Conflict is present in innumerable forms in current society. As a result, a variety of methods of conflict resolution exist, both constructive and destructive. The prevalence of conflict in our everyday lives warrants further study about improved means of resolution. Art therapy theory and techniques have much to offer the process of conflict resolution. Currently, a body of research about using art to explore past or future conflicts does exist. However, this literature lacks a thorough examination of using art in order to process and resolve current conflicts, involving all parties involved in the conflict.

The current study explores the incorporation of a joint drawing intervention at the beginning of mediation sessions. Mediators were trained in the administration of the art task and subsequently asked mediation clients to participate in the study. Follow-up surveys and interviews revealed that interactions during the art task were indicative of clients’ interactions throughout the remainder of the mediations. In addition, the art task appeared to lighten the mood of the mediation and to help relax clients. Replication of this study—including minor procedural alterations and an increased sample size—would be valuable in order to substantiate the current findings.

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