THE EFFICACY OF ART THERAPY IN THE REDUCTION OF SYMPTOMS OF ADHD

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the present study is to highlight the significance of Art as therapy for the reduction of symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder.

Place of Study: Karachi, Pakistan

Research Design: Case study

Sample and Method: This paper is based on a case of a 6 year old boy with Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder predominantly hyperactive-Impulsive type and Mild Intellectual disability.  He was regular student of a special school in Karachi, Pakistan. He was given art as therapy, in 25 sessions of behavioral approach to art therapy. ADHD-T was administered for measuring the intensity of symptoms, Human figure drawing and free drawing was done for measuring the developmental and artistic level of the boy before and after the therapy sessions

Results: Results showed decrease in the intensity of the symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder and improvement in the developmental and artistic level of the child.

Conclusions: The results revealed the effectiveness of art therapy in reduction of the symptoms of Attention Deficit/hyperactivity Disorder. The improvement is vivid in the graphic presentation of the art work. Limitations and implications were also discussed.