A Case Study on Color Experience Art Therapy Using Wet on Wet Painting For Children at a Local Children's Center : Focusing on Depression and Happiness

This study examined the effects of wet-on-wet painting art therapy on reducing depression and enhancing happiness in children at a community child center. A total of 32 weekly 60-minute group art therapy sessions were conducted for children in Incheon’s H Community Child Center who exhibited depression and behavioral issues. To assess the effectiveness, the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI-C), a happiness scale, and the K-HTP test were administered before and after the intervention. Results showed that the therapy promoted emotional stability and behavioral improvements, enhancing self-expression and emotional regulation. Additionally, it effectively reduced depression and increased happiness, with notable improvements in self-esteem and optimism, fostering social bonds. Despite its limitations as a small-scale study, this research highlights the potential of wet-on-wet painting as a valuable intervention for enhancing psychological well-being in emotionally vulnerable children.