| Abstract [eng] |
Emotional expression in correctional settings is often restricted by self-protection, the need for control, and fear of vulnerability. Therefore, creative expression may provide a safer way to explore and communicate inner experiences. The aim of this study was to reveal the emotional expression of incarcerated youth in the process of art therapy. A qualitative research design with elements of mixed methods was employed. The study was conducted in Kaunas Prison between October and December 2025. Three incarcerated young adults aged 18–22 participated in the study. One participant attended eleven individual art therapy sessions, while the remaining participants attended eight sessions each. Data were collected through observation protocols, the researcher’s reflective notes, the Schutte Self-Report Inventory (SSRI), and the collection and analysis of participants’ artworks. Clay was used as the primary therapeutic medium, complemented by collage and human figure colouring tasks. The findings revealed that emotional expression was predominantly indirect, symbolic, and metaphorical. Participants expressed emotions through nature imagery, animal motifs, human figures, colours, symbols, and their relationship with art materials. Recurring motifs such as water, mountains, houses, trees, animals, islands, and human figures reflected needs for safety, belonging, connection, self-protection, and inner support. The results indicated that clay facilitated the bodily experience and regulation of emotional tension, collage enabled safer exploration of emotional experiences through symbolic imagery, and human figure colouring supported the recognition of emotions on a bodily level. Observation protocols, artwork analysis, and SSRI data demonstrated changes in emotional expression, self-reflection, and emotional understanding throughout the therapeutic process. The study suggests that art therapy can provide a safe space for incarcerated youth to explore, express, and better understand their emotional experiences. A non-judgemental therapeutic relationship, the creative process, and symbolic expression appear to be particularly important factors in this process. |
