Case report, case study
https://doi.org/10.21860/medflum2022_275141
Art as an assistive method in diagnosing schizophrenia in children and adolescents: case series
Maja Mrak
orcid.org/0000-0001-7175-6399
; University of Rijeka, Faculty of Medicine, Rijeka, Croatia
Sara Belčić
orcid.org/0000-0002-7365-3016
; University of Rijeka, Faculty of Medicine, Rijeka, Croatia
Valentino Rački
; University of Rijeka, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Rijeka, Croatia
Daniela Petrić
; Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka, Psychiatry Clinic, Department of Psychiatry, Rijeka, Croatia
Abstract
Aim: To report the clinical courses of four adolescent patients, who developed childhood-onset schizophrenia and where art had a vital role in diagnosing schizophrenia, monitoring their clinical state and progression. Case report: All of the patients had several diagnoses throughout childhood; however, the final diagnosis was made with the help of art therapy. Following the changes in the content of our patients' drawings enabled us to notice the changes in their quality of life, functioning, and efficacy of therapy. Some of the patients specified that throughout the drawing process, they felt more satisfied, “better” and not „haunted„ by their hallucinations. This acknowledgment assured us that creative expression through art is an appropriate approach for them. It also strengthened the therapeutic relationship with our patients and encouraged us to understand their disease and make better decisions about their treatment. Conclusions: We propose art as an assistive method in diagnosing schizophrenia. Art can break down communication barriers and can also serve as follow-up method for children and adolescent patients with schizophrenia.
Keywords
art; creativity; diagnosis; schizophrenia; schizophrenia, childhood
Hrčak ID:
275141
URI
Publication date:
1.6.2022.
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