Presented is a collection of case studies by therapists, educators, artists, parents, and recreation leaders, dealing with the arts as learning experiences for handicapped children. Each of the ten articles records the positive effects of arts experiences (dance, art, music, drama) on the growth and development of a particular handicapped child or…

Describes the work of Viktor Lowenfeld in developing creative art experiences for the handicapped, particularly using sculpture with the blind. The bulk of the article consists of excerpts from Lowenfeld's own writings, including a case study of his work with a deaf blind child. (SJL)

Recent research has shown that boys from father-absent homes exhibit greater feminine role identification, delinquency, mental disorders, poor academic performance, and poor self-esteem. This article presents case studies that demonstrate crises of masculine identification for adolescent boys whose lives lack either a present father or male…

Examines assumption that art therapists can objectively identify self-images in drawings by troubled adolescents without talking to these youth. Findings suggest that discussion, though preferable, is not required for identifying self-images. Analysis of adolescents' drawings indicates that structured art assessment can be useful in evaluating…

Describes a one-year project involving the integration of expressive arts therapies into an alternative education program. Therapies such as bibliotherapy, phototherapy, poetry therapy, and studio work form the basis for the curriculum. A case study, involving a "borderline," emotionally disturbed, and artistically gifted student,…

Details the effectiveness of individual art therapy with a 12-year-old white female whose academic performance decreased after her parents divorced. The treatment focused on problem-solving and self-concept as a means of improving school performance. Results indicate a notable increase in both self-concept and academic performance. (RJM)

This article is based on five case studies of art teaching in Israel in a situation of constant violent conflict. It presents the art teachers' practices and beliefs about coping with their students' experiences of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Three approaches to art education in this context are identified: a) art creation as an act of…

Reports the use of death therapy with a cancer patient. Gestalt therapy and creative media were used to facilitate an integration of life and a sense of balance with life. Suggests that counseling the dying means walking along a stretch of the path together. (Author)

Presented is a case study of Johnny, a four-year-old living with his divorced mother, which illustrates the application of art therapy to the basic problems experienced by children in a one-parent family. This article is part of a theme issue on art therapy. (SJL)

Investigates the creativity and behavior precipitated by employing the mandala as an active centering device for children with Attention-Deficit Disorder or Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Drawings were requested and rated according to the Formal Elements Art Therapy Scale. Preliminary findings indicate that attentional abilities…

Uses an example of a counseling session to illustrate the use of drawing as a counseling technique for nonverbal children. Suggests that drawing provides a less threatening atmosphere that allows children to communicate with a counselor and express feelings they may not want to face. (JAC)

The treatment of children with Gender Identity Disorder is laden with important ethical and moral considerations. Gender-typed behavior is defined by culture; therefore, it is of paramount importance that therapists clarify their own biases and expectations of gender-based behavior before attempting treatment. Two case studies are presented. (LSR)

Presents case study of 10-year-old girl with nighttime fears. Provides background information on the case and discusses various strategies used to lessen fears and encourage control: involving and educating the parents; educating the child; allowing the child to explore and discuss fears through art; teaching positive, competence-related…

Intended as a basic text for graduate courses in art therapy with handicapped children, the book contains discussions of the role of art in the handicapped child's education and the development of cognitive and creative skills through the use of art. In the first of two parts, the range of opportunities in art for cognition, adjustment, and…

This book is a research-based resource for professionals treating women who are sexually abused by female perpetrators, mainly mothers and grandmothers. The book first focuses on the female perpetrator, defines the treatments that have proven successful, and provides an overview of the available literature. Also addressed are the myths and…