engleski

Art-therapy as a multidimensional and complementary therapy in persons with brain damage

Background and aims: Brain damage is related to deterioration or destruction of brain cells caused by different type of traumas, illness or injures and can negatively affect different perceptive, motor and/or psychosocial functions. For that reasons, therapy and rehabilitation of persons with brain damage requires multidimensional and interdisciplinary approaches. In this context, the use of art-therapy, as part of expressive arts therapies, may also be considered. Art-therapy, through the use of various art techniques (such as drawing, painting, modelling collage, printmaking, computer art-techniques, etc.) promotes kinaesthetic and sensory functions, fine and gross motor skills, as well as imagination and symbolic processing. Also, during the therapy process there is possibility of using assistive technology that allows persons with different limitations to use various tools and materials in their creative expression. Methods: In this regard, the aim of this paper is to review some of the results from previous research, to provide insight into appropriate models of intervention and to propose guidelines for the future use of art-therapy in this problem area. Results: Review of recent results points out that art-therapy can be explained as a stepwise sustainment of sensorimotor, psychosocial and behavioural interactions in persons with brain damage. However, its efficiency should be further explored in order to provide a solid evidence-based rationale for its use as well as to develop new instruments for qualitative and quantitative evaluation of different parameters. Conclusion: Also, more interdisciplinary research is needed, aiming to develop integrative and holistic therapeutic approaches that are focused on improving the well-being and quality of life in persons with brain damage.

brain damage ; art-therapy ; holistic approach ; quality of life

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