Social action research methods and art therapy

Abstract

Considering art therapy research as a chance to look again, to re-examine the way in which art therapists understand and perceive their work, creates a path to utilize research not only for demonstrating evidence-based practice, but also for pursuing social justice. This chapter first discusses the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of social action research method. Then, it discusses ideas for how to pursue social action research methods in art therapy. By highlighting various art therapy studies, the chapter compares the processes of social action research with the processes of art therapy. Understanding the influential roles that art images and art therapy have to offer may encourage art therapists to undertake social action research projects. Using this type of research methodology may lead to art therapists taking active and prominent roles in asking complex, provocative social questions and working toward solutions.