Art as projective medium in diagnosing psychological problems

Abstract

From a qualitative study conducted with psychology- and art students in New York the researchers found that the students' drawings were mostly a reflection of their existing emotional status. From these drawings it became apparent that some students felt stuck because of emotional problems experienced. In South Africa art lecturers at a higher education institution observed that signs and symbols used by art students in their art could reflect possible emotional problems. We were invited to conduct research regarding the observed emotional problems of art students in their art. The research question posed was: 'How can art as projective medium be applied for diagnosing psychological problems of art students?' The research objectives were to explore and describe the application of art as projective medium for diagnosing psychological problems of art students within an educational psychological perspective. A qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design was followed. Thirty male and female art students from a diversity of cultures participated. Their ages ranged from 19 - 23 years. Data was collected by means of art works (rose or rosebush drawings and recently completed comic strips); in-depth individual interviews focused on obtaining meaning from the art students regarding their art; field notes from observation and handwriting on unlined paper. Data was analysed within a descriptive approach. From the analysis of the data of the art students, a central theme was identified based on the life story about unresolved trauma during childhood. Major associated themes were 'experienced abuse' and 'rejection with resulting withdrawal'. They are indicative of the possible psychological problems these students experienced. Art can thus be utilised as projective medium in diagnosing psychological problems. Suggestions are made to address the identified psychological problems. This abstract was translated into English by the publisher or author.