The Efficacy of Arts-Based Therapy (ABT) for Emotional Recovery and Psychosocial Support: A School-Based Action Research Study on Vulnerable Adolescents

ABSTRACT : This action research study investigates the efficacy and operational feasibility of a multimodal Arts-Based Therapy (ABT) intervention in supporting emotional regulation, self-expression, and psychosocial well-being among vulnerable adolescents in Bhutan. Conducted at Pelrithang Higher Secondary School in Sarpang Dzongkhag over a four-month school term, the study addresses a critical gap in school counselling practice, where traditional talk-based therapy encounters a severe ‘verbal bottleneck’ among traumatized youth constrained by socio-cultural norms. Following Kemmis and McTaggart’s cyclical action research framework (Plan, Act, Observe, Reflect), a 35-hour intervention incorporating visual arts, music, movement, and narrative metaphors was implemented with seven Grade VI male students (aged 12–14) presenting severe emotional dysregulation linked to documented Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Methodological triangulation integrated psychometric scales (Emotional Expressivity Scale [EES], Interpersonal Communication Competence Scale [ICCS], WCCL ABT Rating Scale), qualitative art artifact tracking (River of Life, Mandalas), practitioner reflective journals, and independent neutral observer evaluations. Quantitative outcomes demonstrated significant cohort gains: EES mean scores rose by +32.8% (48.0 to 63.6), ICCS mean scores increased by +26.5% (51.4 to 65.0), and ABT composite scores improved by +32.0% (22.5 to 29.7 out of 50). Qualitative art tracking revealed psychological containment and trauma processing, while neutral observer ratings verified marked improvements in impulse control (+81%) and prosocial peer interaction (+106%). The study provides evidence-based recommendations for the Ministry of Education and Skills Development to integrate non-verbal expressive modalities into national school guidance frameworks.

KEYWORDS : Action research, Adverse Childhood Experiences, Arts-Based Therapy, Emotional regulation, Psychosocial support, Vulnerable adolescents.