Graduation Date
2023
Document Type
Doctoral Dissertation
Project Type
Mixed Methods
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy in Art Therapy
Program
Art Therapy
Program Director
Lisa Hinz, PhD, ATR-BC
First Reader
Lisa Hinz, PhD, ATR-BC
Second Reader
Arnell Etherington Reader
Abstract
Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) are an epidemic in the United States comprising 4.4 million women, including high rates of recidivism, and often accompanied by comorbid mental health issues. Recognizing the need for effective tools to support women in recovery, this research aligns the key tenets of present focus and personal control within Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) with various established mindfulness-based therapies, while using a Positive Psychology framework to conceptualize strategies to help enhance mindfulness in women in early recovery. Although engaging in clay work has been linked to mindfulness for its capacity to foster a state of presence and self-centering, scant art therapy research exists to date on the use of clay with SUDs population. Using a mixed methods approach within a positive psychology framework, this study explored the experiences of eleven women in early substance use recovery as they engaged in four structured and unstructured clay sessions. Quantitative results indicated no significant changes in mindfulness and well-being scales. In comparison, qualitative results showed that clay's sensory and kinesthetic qualities along with its novel and positive energies during engagement elicited the use of metaphors, positive emotions, and enhanced mindfulness experiences such as self-awareness, attunement, and groundedness. Additionally, the women experienced meaning-making and positive changes in self-perception. Thus, the study highlights clay's potential to support mindfulness, AA, and positive psychology strategies and calls for further research exploring the intersection of clay work, art therapy, mindfulness, and SUDS recovery.
IRB Number
S2021-001