Myth or Trend: A Study of the "Clinification Syndrome" in the Field of Art Therapy
Graduation Date
Summer 1995
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Document Form
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Degree Granting Institution
Notre Dame de Namur University
Program Name
Art Therapy
Abstract
This study investigated the possible existence, causes and problems created by the “clinification syndrome” in the field of art therapy. Areas explored in the data gathering process included professional status, art therapist identity issues, importance of personal art making, frequency of personal art making, use of art with clients, changes in the ait therapists identity and changes in the frequency of art use over a period of time. Results of the study confirmed the precepts of the “clinification syndrome.” Areas explored in the literature review included core identity issues, art psychotherapy, sublimation and art therapy, creativity and art therapy, definitions of art, art and healing, and art therapy and the “clinification syndrome.”