The effect of regional differences on visual arts interpretation in exacerbation and stable periods of chronic airway diseases

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of regional differences on visual arts interpretation in exacerbation and stable periods of chronic airway diseases. METHODS: Six pictures were shown to patients in exacerbation and stable period in Kocaeli and Mardin. Three questions including feelings, comments and dominant color for all pictures were asked. Beck Depression and Anxiety Questionnaires were performed in exacerbation period. RESULTS: Sixty patients included in the study. There were significant differences of positive or negative feelings and comments in both exacerbation and stable period between the cities. The difference was significant especially in 1, 2, 3 and 5 numbered pictures. The comments of the pictures numbered 1, 2, 3 and 5 were significantly different in exacerbation and stable periods in Mardin. There were significant differences of feelings (1, 3, 5 and 6. picture) and comments (2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. picture) related to pictures in exacerbation and stable periods in Kocaeli. The depression score was ≥12 nearly half of the cases in exacerbation period. The comment of fifth picture was related with depression (p=0,037). Eighty percent of the cases had anxiety in exacerbation period. There was a significant difference of comments related to second and sixth pictures with respect to anxiety (p=0,02; p=0,016). CONCLUSIONS: There are individual and regional differences in interpretation of visual arts. It is suggested that patients who do not show a positive change in the interpretation of arts in stable period should be evaluated for the possible anxiety and depression.