Author(s)

Zihan Liu

Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, USA.

Art therapy in China emerged during the 1990s and is still in its early stage of cultural adaptation and methodological refinement. This study explores the development and application of art therapy in China, with an emphasis on culturally specific practices rooted in traditional Chinese aesthetics. A sample of 12 participants recruited through online social media and snowball sampling participated in a semi-structured interview. Results indicated the positive effects of art therapy on participants’ mental health, emotional regulation and outlet, improvement of anxiety and depression, relaxation, etc. Even though evidence suggests traditional Chinese art therapy has beneficial effects, it is still at its early development stage. This study also underscores the need for a wider range of applications and the improvement of professional skills in Chinese art therapy.

Art Therapy, Drawing, Chinese Culture, Chinese Traditional Art Therapy, Chinese Context

Liu, Z.H. (2025) The Exploration of the Effects of Art Therapy on Individuals’ Psychological Recovery Mechanisms under the Chinese Cultural Context. Psychology, 16, 1257-1282. doi: 10.4236/psych.2025.1611072.