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32 - The Benefits of Creativity in Therapy

Current Evidence and Future Directions

from Part VI - Creativity in Everyday Life

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  15 September 2017

By
Marie J.x00A0;C. Forgeard  and
Jeanette G. Elstein
Edited by
James C. Kaufman ,
Vlad P. Glăveanu  and
John Baer
James C. Kaufman
Affiliation:
University of Connecticut
Vlad P. Glăveanu
Affiliation:
Universitetet i Bergen, Norway
John Baer
Affiliation:
Rider University, New Jersey
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Summary

Abstract

Eminent creators have often anecdotally suggested that their creative work contributes positively to their well-being. In this chapter, we provide a brief review of the literature investigating the therapeutic benefits of creative activities. Specifically, we review what creative activities have been shown to be beneficial. To do so, we describe findings related to the study of art therapy, which has produced a rich body of empirical evidence. We also discuss research methods used to investigate the benefits of creative activities. Next, we review existing research examining how creative activities benefit those who engage in them, focusing on potential underlying processes – such as changes in affect or growth through adversity. Finally, we describe gaps in existing knowledge and recommend directions for future scholarship.

Type
Chapter
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The Cambridge Handbook of Creativity across Domains , pp. 587 - 601
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2017

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