Implications for Art Therapy with Foster Children: A Literature Review

This literature review summarizes the psychological needs of foster children and the potential benefits of utilizing art therapy in addressing these concerns. Social workers play a major role in the lives of foster children however; their primary responsibility is often logistics and legal matters. Art therapists can fill this gap by providing foster children opportunities for creative self-expression and enhanced communication through other means besides verbalization. Through art therapy, foster children can develop their self-esteem, sense of safety, relationships, social skills, and a sense of their personal history. Also included in this literature review is a case study proposal to learn what a foster child thinks of Lifebook creation with an art therapist and its effects on his or her foster care experiences.