Comparative group art therapy research to evaluate changes in locus of control in behavior disordered children

Journal/Book: Arts in Psychotherapy. 1993; 20: 231-241.

Abstract: Examined the use of art therapy to modify the locus of control (LOC) and adaptive classroom behavior of children with behavior disorders. 36 4th, 5th, and 6th graders were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 experimental conditions: a cognitive behavioral art therapy group, an art as therapy group, or a control group. The Nowicki-Strickland Locus of Control Scale for Children indicates that Ss in both art therapy groups made greater gains toward the norm LOC than did controls. The Connors Teacher Rating Scale indicates that the 2 art therapy conditions were more effective than a control group in helping behavior disordered Ss improve. A personal conduct drawing interview found that both conditions helped Ss gain more positive attitudes about the self in relation to school, peers, and authority figures. To illustrate the therapeutic changes that occurred, 2 case studies are presented of boys initially diagnosed with antisocial disorder who benefitted from the program.

Note: art therapy; locus of control & adaptive classroom behavior; 4th 6th graders with behavior disorders

Keyword(s): Internal external locus of control; classroom behavior; art therapy; behavior disorders; adaptive behavior; elementary school students; childhood

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