Abstract

This research paper investigates how art therapy is a creative process through which children who have experienced domestic violence can communicate their thoughts, emotions, and trauma. The research presents a practical look at violence and children and how art therapy can be utilized as a tool for such children. Some ethical concerns are presented and various assessment procedures that have been developed for children within the area of children and abuse are suggested. An attempt is made to understand the emotional content through indicators represented within children's art expressions. An emphasis is placed on the use of specific indicators portrayed in the images of children who have been exposed to violence followed by a discussion of the art therapy process and product and its importance when working with children who have been exposed to violence. The importance of play in therapy is presented as I found it beneficial to this population. Further, a case study of a child who has experienced domestic violence is incorporated within the research by way of illustration in support of the study.