The effectiveness of art therapy in addressing emotional and behavioral issues and enhancing self-esteem of children living in residential childcare institutions: a feasibility study in Kerala, India

Abstract

Background: Children living in residential childcare institutions often face emotional, behavioral challenges, and low self-esteem due to early trauma and attachment issues. Art therapy, a creative and non-verbal engagement technique, is a promising approach that remains unexplored. Objective: This study aims to test the feasibility of a structured art therapy intervention to address emotional and behavioral issues and enhance self-esteem of children in residential childcare institutions. Methods: A small sample experimental design was used to assess the effectiveness of a 10-week structured art therapy intervention for children aged 10–16 in residential childcare institutions in Kerala, India. Results: Post-intervention, outcomes revealed significant improvements in emotional problems (t = 8.008, p < 0.001) in contrast with comparison group. Conclusions: Art therapy facilitates the articulation of internal conflicts and serves as a non-verbal, non-threatening method with children promoting positive coping strategies. This study recommends randomized controlled trials in larger populations before implementing it in all childcare institutions.