A Qualitative Study on Art therapists’ Experiences of Art Therapy for Individuals with Borderline Intellectual Functioning

This study highlights the effectiveness of art therapy for individuals with borderline intellectual functioning and seeks to lay the groundwork for an art psychological support system. To this end, the study examined the challenges faced by art therapists, explored ways to enhance therapy, and delved into its therapeutic significance. Interviews with three experienced art therapists were conducted, followed by qualitative analysis. As a result, first, a personalized art therapy, tailored to the characteristics, developmental level, and psychological-emotional needs of individuals with borderline intellectual functioning, proved essential. Second, art therapy facilitated the integration of emotional stability and cognitive development while playing a crucial role in alleviating emotional and social challenges. Third, art therapy has the unique therapeutic power of art to promote holistic growth of individuals with borderline intellectual functioning. Fourth, there were limitations, including low societal awareness, expectations of immediate results, and a lack of resources and support systems. Thus, supporting both emotional stability and cognitive development, art therapy does not place individuals with borderline intellectual functioning on the ‘borderline of intelligent, but promotes self-expression and social communication. Moving forward, further research and program development are needed, along with strengthening art therapists' competencies and enhancing professional collaboration.