Philippine E-Journals

Art Therapy and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Phenomenological Exploration

Rodrigo Sy

 

Abstract:

This study was designed to (1) determine the significance of art therapy on a child with Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD); (2) use art therapy in exploring the seven developmental skills in a child with ADHD and (3) surface the factors obstructing the child‘s performance in developing fundamental competences to their fullest potential; and (4) document the researcher‘s journey in using art therapy on a single case of a child with ADHD. The case was drawn from the student population of ―A‖ Rehabilitation Center and The ―B‖ Rehabilitation Center (names withheld to be kept confidential). The researcher/art therapist conducted an on-site weekly basis, one-hour art session for twenty months. Art activities were geared towards the exploration and observation on the behavioral, communication, motor, cognitive, social, emotional and academic domains of the students. Results suggest that the child with ADHD is interested in art therapy. His interest and preference were associated with negative affect, anxiety, age, and self-efficacy. Lastly, the findings also highlight the need and inclusion of art therapy on children‘s Individual Educational Program (IEP) as part of their early intervention and rehabilitation program.