Individual versus sequential: the potential of comic creation in art therapy

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Research suggests that comics are effective at conveying narratives, promoting literacy, empowerment, and as a therapeutic intervention. However, there is a gap in research on the use of comics in art therapy. Aims This study explored the potential of comics within an art therapy and narrative therapy framework. The primary research question explored the effectiveness of comics compared to single images in evoking narratives from past problems. The secondary research question examined differences in the representation of an event between the two formats. To address these questions, the process of depicting a past problem as a single image was compared to depicting the same problem as a comic. Methods This study recruited 15 adult participants through convenience sampling. This was a non-clinical population consisting of individuals with no known psychological difficulties or history of psychological disorders. Participants evaluated the formats through a survey and verbal interview. Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed to determine the formats’ effectiveness. Participants’ artwork was analysed for unique characteristics the comic evoked. Results Data analysis indicated participants responded positively to the comic, which seemed especially effective at facilitating the narrative therapy technique of deconstructing. Artwork analysis indicated the comic evoked increased word inclusion, and unique representations of time and movement. Conclusions These results support the hypothesis that comics are at least as effective than single images in eliciting narratives from past problems, and evoke unique characteristics. Implications This study suggests the potential of comics in art therapy, encouraging further research and application. Plain-language summary Research has suggested the effectiveness of comic creation as a means of communication and empowerment. However, there is a gap in research on the use of comic creation as an art therapy intervention. This study explored the potential of comics as an art therapy tool by comparing the process of depicting a past problem as a single image to the process of depicting the same problem as a comic. This was done in order to determine the effectiveness of creating a comic compared to creating a single image in depicting a past problem, particularly in eliciting a narrative from the problem. This study also explored how the representation of an event might differ in a comic versus a single image format. This study worked with 15 adult participants who had no prior history of psychological disorders. Participants first depicted a past problem as a comic and a single image and then completed a survey and a verbal interview comparing these two formats. Results indicated that participants responded positively to the comic format and that it appeared especially effective in helping participants break down the origins, impacts and actions involved in the problem. Examining participants’ artwork also suggested that the comic format brought about unique representations of time and movement. The findings of this study suggest that comic or sequential art have potential for use in an art therapy setting. This study hopes to spark further research and encourage the use of comics in therapeutic settings.