Abstract
Background. The population of people with developmental disabilities has historically been isolated and denied opportunities for independence and self-determination. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether Creative Arts Therapy in the form of Video Production increases self-determination in the areas of autonomy, social interaction, and self-efficacy in adults with developmental disabilities. Methods. This study used purposeful sampling of 30 clients at a day program that offers video production—14 participated in a 3-month-long, weekly Video Production class (Group A), and 16 (Group B) had previously participated in Video Production for at least 1 year prior to the study. Qualitative data was collected through semi-structured interviews with questions related to the perceived benefits of Video Production as a Creative Arts Therapy. Results. Participants attributed increases in autonomy, social interaction, self-efficacy, patience, and focus to participating in Video Production. Conclusions. This study provides preliminary evidence that Video Production as a Creative Arts Therapy implemented with adults who have developmental disabilities can increase self-determination skills in autonomy, social interaction, and self-efficacy. Video Production has the potential to become a universally used form of Art Therapy, but further research is needed. "I’m a better person because of Video Production…and you can quote me on that." -Male, 33, Cerebral Palsy & Intellectual Disability