A pilot study of arts therapy techniques to evoke emotional states in forensic patients

Abstract

There is little evidence on the effectiveness of arts therapy interventions in forensic settings. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of arts therapy in evoking emotional vulnerability in forensic patients. Participants received drama, art or psychomotor therapy. For each therapy, we used a 5-session protocol that consisted of an introduction session, an assessment session, an intervention session that deliberately aimed to evoke emotional vulnerability, a regular intervention session, and a wrap-up session. Emotional vulnerability was assessed with the Mode Observation Scale and the Schema Mode Inventory, which is a self-report. Participants showed a significant increase in emotional vulnerability in both intervention sessions. The self-report ratings indicated that there was no significant change in vulnerable emotions. Our hypothesis was only partially supported. The findings provide some support for the effectiveness of arts therapy interventions in forensic patients.