Art therapy review proposes links between brain, emotions and culture
The authors connect biological, psychological and cultural explanations for art therapy, while calling for stronger trials to establish its effects and mechanisms.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
This review offers a way to organize ideas about art therapy, linking brain activity, emotional processes and cultural context. Its abstract describes clinical applications but reports neither numerical treatment effects nor direct comparisons with other care. The proposed framework organizes possible explanations; its mechanisms and effectiveness still need stronger testing.
This is a narrative synthesis with studies chosen for relevance to the proposed model. The abstract supplies no study count, pooled effect estimates or condition-specific assessment of evidence strength.
How the framework was assembled
The authors selected literature for its usefulness in building their model. They connect proposed changes in brain networks with experiences such as emotion regulation, identity and creative absorption, alongside the influence of cultural context.
What remains to be established
The review discusses applications in several very different clinical settings. Its call for controlled trials, consistent outcome measures and cross-cultural validation makes clear that a broad conceptual framework does not establish reliable benefits for each condition.
The original publication
Healing potential of art therapy: a narrative review of neuro-psycho-cultural mechanisms in mental health.
He J, Zhang Z
Front Psychol · 2025
- PubMed ID
- 41635771
- Record checked
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