8th Annual Conference of the German Scientific Association for Arts Therapies
Evaluation of an international art therapy film campaign with survey
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Background: As part of the Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021–2030), the DUERER study team initiated an international film campaign with the art therapy short film „The Mind’s Image“. The aim was to raise awareness of art therapy as an effective intervention in old age and to open up an international exchange.
Method: From November 2023 to February 2024, an exploratory online survey was conducted with (prospective) art therapists. Participants watched the film and then completed a standardized questionnaire via Netigate. This data was evaluated using quantitative-descriptive and qualitative-content analysis.
Results: The film was viewed 1,484 times, and 168 participants completed the survey. They were predominantly from Europe and were mostly practicing art therapists (80%) with 4–10 years of professional experience. 58% stated that art therapy with older people was not well established in their country. Frequently mentioned art therapy goals with older people were: improving well-being (19%), ability to act (18%) and social interaction (14%).
Conclusion: The film campaign shows a high level of interest in art therapy work with older people. Audiovisual media such as The Mind’s Image have great potential for knowledge networking and promoting a discourse on art therapy.
