| Abstract [eng] |
This master's thesis explores the changes in self-concept and self-esteem of highly sensitive early adolescents in the process of individual art therapy. The research is relevant due to the limited extent to which this topic has been studied both in Lithuania and globally, despite the fact that highly sensitive individuals—especially in early adolescence—often face increased psychological vulnerability. The aim of the research was to examine changes in self-concept and self-esteem in highly sensitive early adolescents through the application of individual art therapy. Objectives: 1. Review the issues faced by highly sensitive early adolescents and the potential application of art therapy; 2. Assess overall changes in the participants' levels of self-concept and self-esteem using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and the Harter Self-Perception Profile for Children; 3. Analyze individual changes in participants' self-concept and self-esteem through Visual Content Analysis and Human Figure Drawing analysis; 4. Identify and describe the connections between the quantitative and qualitative research data. The study employed a mixed-methods design – a quantitative study (pre-experimental, one-group intervention) and a qualitative study (Visual Content Analysis and Human Figure Drawing Analysis). Quantitative data were collected using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and the Harter Self-Perception Profile for Children, while qualitative data were collected through observation and visual analysis. The study involved seven students aged 11–15 from three schools in Vilnius. Quantitative results revealed that, following the art therapy intervention, participants' self-esteem levels increased significantly (p=0.034) with a large effect size (r=0.87), and self-concept levels also increased significantly (p=0.031) with a large effect size (r=0.88). The qualitative visual analysis supported and enriched the quantitative findings, revealing deeper personal transformations. Through Visual Content Analysis, comparison of Human Figure Drawings, and analysis of the researcher's journal, an increase in participants' self-concept and self-esteem was identified. Conclusions: 1. Based on the analysis of theoretical literature, it can be stated that art therapy is an effective method for helping highly sensitive early adolescents to strengthen their self-concept and self-esteem. It creates a safe space for emotional expression, enables exploration of the inner world, and encourages self-acceptance. 2. The results of the quantitative study showed that individual art therapy sessions had a positive impact on the participants’ self-esteem levels—after the intervention, the self-esteem indicators improved for all participants except one, with a statistically significant change (p=0.034) and a large effect size (r=0.87). The level of self-concept also increased (p=0.031) with a large effect size (r=0.88). 3. Qualitative painting analysis revealed improvements in individual participants' self-concept through changes in artistic tools and modes of expression, as well as thematic/symbolic transformations. Increases in self-esteem were reflected in changes in drawing composition and features of projective drawings. Improvements in both self-concept and self-esteem were also evident in more positive reflections and the ability to relate drawing elements to the self. 4. After analyzing and integrating the quantitative and qualitative research results, clear parallels emerged. The increase in self-perception (+4.6%) was reflected through complex thematic/symbolic changes and the transformation of artistic tools and expression, while the significant increase in self-esteem (+18.8%) was seen through changes in drawing composition and features of projective drawings. Positive changes in both constructs were also observed through the art therapy process and participants’ behavioral changes. |
