Evaluation of effectiveness of art and therapy program for deafblind people

Abstract

This study explores the effectiveness of puppetry-based art therapy in improving body perception, non-verbal communication, and interpersonal relationships in deafblind people. Interventions at the Foyer Claire Fontaine were evaluated by comparing the results between control and experimental groups. The results showed significant improvements in body and space perception as well as in communication skills and creativity in the experimental group compared to the control group. Non-verbal communication, especially through touch and body movements, proved to be an effective tool for the expression of ideas and emotions, facilitating interaction between the participants and the communicative mediators. Puppet-making not only promoted self-expression and creativity but also improved social skills and group cohesion. The findings underline the importance of including art therapy programs in specialized centers for people with deafblindness by providing evidence for the benefits of adapted art therapy, highlighting its potential to improve the quality of life of people with sensory impairments and providing a solid basis for future research and practical applications in the field of art therapy.