Hilse, C., Griffiths, S. and Corr, S. (2007) The impact of participating in a poetry workshop. British Journal of Occupational Therapy. 70(10), pp. 431-438. 1477-6006.
- Information
Information
Abstract:
Poetry writing is a creative activity and, as such, may contribute to intervention. The aim of this study was to explore the impact of poetry writing on individuals
who had experienced mental health problems in the past. A qualitative approach, that of grounded theory, was used, including observations of a poetry writing group and in-depth semi-structured interviews with two group participants who had a previous history of mental health problems.
The main categories that emerged during data analysis were creation, communication, connection and awareness; these categories were unified by a central concept of personal meaning. The findings suggest that poetry writing creates and communicates meaning. In addition, internal connection (with self) and external connection (with others) may be facilitated through the communication of poetry. Communication and experiences of connection can lead to a greater awareness of self and others. Personal meaning is central to human life in symbolisation processes, which contribute to identity building.
The positive and negative impacts on mental health through the writing of poetry and participating in a group were identified. This is a small study and the findings are valid only in the immediate context of the study, but it provides a basis for further research.
Uncontrolled Keywords:
poetry; creative writing; mental health; personal meaning; communication; connection; awareness
Subjects:
Creators:
Hilse, C., Griffiths, S. and Corr, S.
Publisher:
College of Occupational Therapists
Faculties, Divisions and Institutes:
University Faculties, Divisions and Research Centres - OLD > Faculty of Health & Society > Occupational Therapy
University Faculties, Divisions and Research Centres - OLD > Faculty of Education & Humanities > Special Education Needs and Inclusion
Faculties > Faculty of Education & Humanities > Special Education Needs and Inclusion
Faculties > Faculty of Health & Society > Occupational Therapy
University Faculties, Divisions and Research Centres - OLD > Faculty of Education & Humanities > Special Education Needs and Inclusion
Faculties > Faculty of Education & Humanities > Special Education Needs and Inclusion
Faculties > Faculty of Health & Society > Occupational Therapy
Date:
1 October 2007
Date Type:
Publication
Page Range:
pp. 431-438
Journal or Publication Title:
British Journal of Occupational Therapy
Volume:
70
Number:
10
Language:
English
ISSN:
1477-6006
Status:
Published / Disseminated
Refereed:
Yes
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