Creating a difference – a role for the arts in addressing child wellbeing in conflict-affected areas

Buser, MichaelCentre for Sustainable Planning and Environments, University of the West of England, Bristol, BS16 1QY, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (author)

BackgroundDetails findings from a project on the potential for arts activities and art therapy to support the mental health and wellbeing of children living in Kashmir.MethodsThe intervention engaged 30 school children over the course of one year who produced various forms of artwork and performances. In this paper, we report on project impacts, drawing on some of our qualitative measures including observations and interviews.ResultsOur research details impacts and improvements in areas of emotional expression, belonging, and agency. We also found an important role for schools to create safe, secure, and caring spaces to allow students to express themselves and work through traumatic feelings in a non-judgemental way.ConclusionsSchool-based arts interventions can play an important role in the mental health and wellbeing of children. Critical here, however, are dedicated space, time, and resources to provide a supportive environment and to sustain activity in long-term.

Brännlund, EmmaHealth and Social Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland(Swepub:miun)emmbra2300 (author)
Holt, Nicola J.Visual Arts Middlesex University, London, NW4 4BT, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (author)
Leeson, LoraineVisual Arts Middlesex University, London, NW4 4BT, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (author)
Mytton, JulieHealth and Social Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol BS3 2JT, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (author)
Centre for Sustainable Planning and Environments, University of the West of England, Bristol, BS16 1QY, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern IrelandHealth and Social Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (creator_code:org_t)

By the author/editor: Buser, Michael; Brännlund, Emma; Holt, Nicola J.; Leeson, Loraine; Mytton, Julie

About the subject

SOCIAL SCIENCES: SOCIAL SCIENCES; and Other Social Sci ...; and Social Sciences ...

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