Art Therapy for Children with Communication and Behavioral Problems

Background: In Jordan, there is an alarming rise in children's mental health and behavioral issues, yet treatment services remain underutilized. Art therapy, a form of psychotherapy that uses artistic activities as a means of communication, offers a culturally sensitive alternative. Aims: to evaluate the feasibility, cultural acceptability, and effectiveness of art therapy for children with emotional and behavioral problems in Jordan.Methods: A sequential repeated measure explanatory mixed methods design was used. Twelve children participated in ten weekly art therapy sessions, each designed to address specific themes. Standardized assessment tools for behavioral problems and quality of life were used along with behavioral observations. Friedman’s test and post-hoc analyses with Bonferroni corrections were applied to compare pre- and follow up intervention scores.<br>