Improving the Empirical Credibility of Cinematherapy

Abstract

This study intends to improve the empirical credibility of cinematherapy by measuring its effect on the level of hopelessness experienced by an adult diagnosed with Major Depression. Using a single-subject interrupted time-series design, themes of positivism were highlighted during a 5-week group showing of the movie The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. Data obtained during the treatment period were compared to 3-week baseline and posttreatment data (total of 11 weeks). Results suggest that a structured, nondirective group cinematherapy intervention is statistically and clinically effective at decreasing hopelessness.