Work

The Development of Expressive Therapies Continuum (ETC) Based Art Intervention for Malaysians

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Depression is prevalent in Malaysia; however, existing interventions remain insufficient. Conservative stigma and cultural norms in Asia necessitate alternative, culturally sensitive approaches. This study evaluated the preliminary efficacy of an expressive arts intervention for individuals with depression in Asia, drawing on the theoretical overlap between the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Expressive Therapies Continuum (ETC). A one-group pretest and post-test design involving 16 therapy sessions was conducted with ten young Malaysian adults. The results explained a significant reduction in depressive symptoms ( z = –2.807, p = 0.005), supporting the efficacy of the intervention. Qualitative data revealed positive outcomes across emotional, cognitive, social, and behavioural domains. Overall, this tailored intervention offers a novel and promising approach to address mental health challenges in Asian communities.

Source: Creative Arts in Education and Therapy

DOI: 10.67806/caet/2026/12/1/05

Authors: Jing Wen Ho, Lophren Wen Sheue Yong, Pei Fern Lim, Shubashini Mathialagan, Su Rou Low, Amos En Zhe Lian

Institutions: Raffles University Iskandar, Columbia International University

Language: English

Topic: Art Therapy and Mental Health

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7204249572