A Study on the Impact of Expressive Arts Therapy (Yoga) on Holistic Development with Special Emphasis on Emotional Development of Delinquents

Abstract

The aim of the paper is to understand and assess the Impact of Expressive Arts Therapy on Holistic development of Delinquents of Delhi-NCR with special emphasis on Emotional Intelligence. Expressive arts therapy is a group of therapeutic approaches that lays emphasis on the utilisation of art forms such a visual arts, music, arts and yoga in dealing with multiple mental health issues along with exploring emotions, and personal growth. Holistic development includes being developed in every aspect that consists of physical, emotional, cognitive and psychological states. Emotional intelligence stands for ” a form of social intelligence that involves the ability to monitor one’s own and others’ feelings and emotions, to discriminate among them, and to use this information to guide one’s own thinking and action.”. The methodology used in the study was pre-test-post-test experimental method. The kinaesthetic art form (yoga) was employed to assess the effectiveness of expressive art therapy on the emotional intelligence. A sample of 150 delinquents was selected. Regular yoga sessions were conducted for sixty minutes each day over a time period of 90 days. A combination of deep breathing techniques and yoga poses were used as part of the expressive art therapy. Emotional Intelligence was captured using the Emotional Intelligence Scale by Kamakshi Agnihotri before and after the period of 90 days. The results showed that yoga had a positive impact on emotional intelligence. The study led to conclude that making yoga an integral part of the daily routine can help improve emotional intelligence.