The Need for Research

Clinical evidence shows that the creative arts therapies (CAT) are effective, but there is very little empirical research in the field. There is a need to increase and broaden the CAT research base in order to make it independent from the fields of psychology and education. To do so, we need to investigate the following areas:
How is CAT effective?
What parts of the body are affected by CAT?
What is the connection between the brain, the body, and the arts?
Which populations benefit from CAT?
Which problems and conflicting issues benefit from CAT?

The Emili Sagol Creative Arts Therapies Research Center’s Objectives
In order to answer the aforementioned questions and collect information in the field of CAT, researchers at the Emili Sagol CATRC are involved in a wide range of projects with the following objectives:
– Experiment in both the lab and the field to investigate the impact of intervention techniques on emotional, social, and psycho-physiological aspects.
– Develop and validate arts-based research methods and assessment instruments.
– Collaborate on international cross-cultural research projects.
– Establish an international internet database.
– Develop empirically-based CAT intervention programs.
– Train a generation of young research-practitioners.
– Produce and distribute training films and manuals for students and professionals worldwide.