2005 suplement 1

Back

Volume 14, suplement 1

Case report

Diagnostic and communicative aspects of works of art by a female patient suffering from paranoid schizophrenia

BEATA ZIARKO1, MAŁGORZATA KANIA1, ZYGMUNT PODBIELSKI1, KRZYSZTOF KIELAN1, KAMILA BARGIEL-MATUSIEWICZ2
1. Katedra i Klinika Psychiatrii i Psychoterapii Śląskiej Akademii Medycznej w Katowicach
2. Zakładu Psychologii Śląskiej Akademii Medycznej w Katowicach
Postępy Psychiatrii i Neurologii 2005; 14 (supl. 1/20): 66-106
Keywords: schizophrenia, art therapy

Abstract

Objective. The role of non-verbal communication in interaction with patients suffering from schizophrenia is discussed.

Case. A female patient aged 23, suffering from schizophrenia for the past four years, got interested in art therapy sessions during her treatment in a day hospital. During her 4-week treatment she produced over 20 works of art expressing her feelings andfears. Her works were discussed with the therapist, which allowed to learn about her traumatic experiences she was unable to communicate otherwise. That way the contact with the patient became deeper and her therapy could be more intense.

Commentary. Patients' works of art as a means of expression may become a starting point for their psychoeducation and improved co-operation with the therapist.

Address for correspondence:
Dr Beata Ziarko, Katedra i Klinika Psychiatrii i Psychoterapii Śląskiej Akademii Medycznej, ul. Ziołowa 45/47, 40-635 Katowice, e-mail: beataziarko@poczta.onet.pl