Links between 8–10-Year-Old Children’s Self-Esteem and Creativity in the Process of Art Therapy

Abstract

Background. Children between the ages of 8 and 10 have communication problems. The strongest need of this age is the desire to be recognized by peers, which possibly overshadows the creative needs of self-expression (Jonynienė, 2013). The inner disharmony of a person, which becomes apparent at the younger school age, may later be more important and lead to emotional, behavioural and learning problems, as well as social disadaptation (Juknienė, 2005). We can assume that in case of low self-esteem and low creative needs for self-expression art therapy sessions could help strengthen a person’s self-esteem and creativity.Research aim. The aim of the study was to identify and evaluate links between 8–10-year-old children’s self-esteem and creativity in the process of art therapy. Objectives of the research: 1. To determine 8–10-year-old children’s self-esteem. 2. To determine 8–10-year-old children’s creativity before and after art therapy. Research question: 1. How do the data of the analysis of research methods relate to each other?Methods. The study applied mixed-methods approach. The self-esteem test by Oaklander (2014), E. E. Tunik’s creativity methodology, analysis of formal elements, case analysis and group art therapy consisting of 10 sessions were applied.Results. Self-esteem was tested during the research was average. The change in creativity after art therapy programs was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The results of the analysis of formal elements and the case study were the most important.Conclusions. Research results showed that art therapy strengthened 8-10-yearold children’s self-esteem and improved their creativity. Comparing the first session of art therapy with the last one, the self-esteem and creative experience of the subjects increased.Keywords: self-esteem, creativity, art therapy, junior school age.