The Effectiveness of Art Therapy based on an Islamic Approach in Depressive Temperament Indicators in Patients with Dysthymia
Journal of Pizhūhish dar dīn va Salāmat (i.e., Research on Religion & Health),
Vol. 12 No. 2 (1405),
15 July 2026
,
Page 44-61
https://doi.org/10.22037/jrrh.v12i2.47389
Abstract
Background and Objective: Treating dysthymia is one of the most challenging mental health issues. Given the numerous costs involved, it is essential to review the research background to achieve the most beneficial treatments. The present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of art therapy based on an Islamic approach in depressive temperament indicators in patients with dysthymia.
Methods: The research method was quasi-experimental with a pre-test and post-test control group design and a three-month follow-up period. All patients with dysthymia referring to the psychiatric clinic of Shahid Beheshti Zanjan Hospital in 2023 constituted the statistical population of the study, out of whom 30 people were selected through purposive sampling and randomly assigned to two equal groups of 15. Data collection was done using Beck et al.'s Depression Questionnaire. Art therapy with an Islamic approach was implemented for the experimental group in 12 sessions (one session per week, lasting 90 minutes), but the control group did not receive this program. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and repeated measures analysis of variance on SPSS-v24. All ethical considerations were observed in this study, and the authors of the article reported no conflicts of interest.
Results: The mean total depressive mood score (F=204.565 & η=0.613) in the experimental group improved significantly after the intervention compared to the control group (P<0.05). Art therapy with an Islamic approach was effective in reducing depressive symptoms in the experimental group, unlike the control group (P<0.05), and the effects of this program on depressive symptoms persisted in the follow-up phase (P<0.05).
Conclusion: These findings further clarify the role of art in promoting mental health and highlight the need to use therapy based on Islamic texts to modify mood indicators in clients.
- Art therapy
- Dysthymia
- Islamic approach
How to Cite
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