The evidence base for art therapy with parent and infant dyads: an integrative literature review

Abstract

We aimed to evaluate the existing evidence base for the efficacy of art therapy with parent-infant dyads. We undertook an integrative review, following the PRISMA protocol, systematically searching 4 electronic databases, and grey literature, for papers describing art therapy with parents and infants together. 14 papers were identified for inclusion. These were evaluated for quality, data was synthesised for evidence of change, and we undertook a narrative synthesis of intervention model and thematic analysis drawing together mechanisms of change within the art therapy process. Papers described a group approach to art therapy and contained a mixture of methodological approaches.Themes highlighted the beneficial aspects of the art therapy process that might be common to group psychotherapy approaches and those which were unique to art making, such as the qualities of the materials, the making process and the final art works. The themes identified provide a basis for further research into mechanisms of change within parent-infant art therapy. Those papers which presented quantitative evidence demonstrated promising evidence for the value of art therapy but we identify the need for larger participant numbers and control measures, for this evidence to confidently state the impact of art therapy.

Art boxes supporting parents and infants to share creative interactions at home: an art-based response to improve well-being during COVID-19 restrictions

“…These kinds of connected interpersonal experiences between infant and caregiver are what help to build positive attachments 9,10 so could offer broad benefits to these families. We do not suggest that these packs could provide the equivalent level of benefit to a face-to-face service such as parent-infant art therapy 3 without the additional benefits of the therapists support for interactions and containment of difficult emotions. However, in the current circumstances these kinds of interventions could offer a useful resource to improve wellbeing during social distancing measures, where families do not have access to their usual activities, resources and social supports.…”

“…There are positive evaluations of participative arts in the early years 2 and research shows dyadic art therapy sessions can improve parental well-being and children's attachments. 3 However, we know that social factors impact upon arts participation 4 and in the light of the pandemic existing inequalities have been exacerbated, 5 as well as parental mental health difficulties). 6 The Art at the Start project, a collaboration between University of Dundee and Dundee Contemporary Arts, has been developing a family programme of early years participative arts activities, including art therapy sessions targeting families of infants aged 0e3 years.…”

The Experiences of Parents and Infants Using a Home-Based Art Intervention Aimed at Improving Wellbeing and Connectedness in Their Relationship

“…Within the context of dyadic art therapy sessions, research studies have shown improvements in parental wellbeing, mental health and attachment relationships ( Arroyo and Fowler, 2013 ; Armstrong and Howatson, 2015 ; Armstrong et al, 2019 ; Lavey-Khan and Reddick, 2020 ; Bruce and Hackett, 2021 ). A review of art therapy with this client group found that the capacity to bring dyads together into positive interactions was central ( Armstrong and Ross, 2020 ). Benefits from shared art making in the early years has also been demonstrated in a participative art context ( Starcatchers, 2014 ; Black et al, 2015 ).…”

Mechanisms of change within a dyadic model of Art Therapy for parents and their infants

“…The principle aim of this chapter is to bring the nascent research together and use it to develop a framework for understanding this practice area and its potential benefits in order to support practitioners and provide a solid basis for future research. This chapter builds upon an integrative literature review undertaken in October 2018 (Armstrong & Ross, 2020) looking at those papers where art therapy was being used dyadically with parents and infants. Here we shall discuss what art psychotherapy with parent-infant dyads looks like, outlining the different models of practice, the difference between closed and open group formats, time limited and open durations and directive and non-directive approaches.…”