Film Editing as a Tool for Emotional Regulation

Researchers have been writing about film and psychology for over a century, mostly referring to the perceptual processes while watching films rather than exploring the psychological implications that come with the act of filmmaking, especially the editing process. Investigating editing as an instrument for emotional regulation can not only bring helpful insights for editing professionals but also contribute to its implementation as a medium and an adjunct in psychotherapy and pedagogical settings. This project's concept is built on scientific research in FVBT (film/video-based therapy), with J. Lauren Johnson and Joshua L. Cohen representing contemporary scholars that employ the art of filmmaking in psychotherapy as a means of healing trauma. This paper investigates the potential of editing as a medium for emotional regulation through a case study conducted with four female participants aged 18 to 35. Over the course of five workshops, each lasting three hours, participants engaged in a structured program designed to explore the therapeutic benefits of film editing. Through open questionnaires and discussion groups, the self-perception and emotional awareness of the participants has been tracked and analyzed. Reoccurring themes were grouped into categories such as the differences in the editing. Emotional shifts can be noted throughout the workshop. After every editing session, the participants stated decreased frustration, sadness, and anxiety. Anger and disgust remained low, while the values for self-acceptance, self-understanding and self-awareness continued to be high.