Channelising aggression in children through art
Aggression in children is usually a symptom of underlying issues that find external expression in inappropriate verbal and/or physical behaviour. The traditional course of treatment for anger management in children is behaviour modification and in extreme cases medication. These approaches have their merits and can help in averting disastrous consequences for the child and their family. However, focusing on behavioural techniques in isolation may inadvertently conceal the psycho-emotional problems that are at the root of the behaviours and may be a call for help from the child, rather than a deliberate attempt to cause harm.
Children lack the ability for metacognition or the capacity to think about their thoughts. Simply put, they may have no clue as to why they may be acting out, transgressing limits, pushing buttons and indulging in inappropriate behaviors. Some of the underlying reasons may be related to : attachment issues, familial problems, stress related to school and peers, learning differences and developmental challenges. Thus, it may be unreasonable to expect external compliance from a child who may be suffering emotionally, without addressing the internal aspect of the matter.
Art therapy is most efficacious when it comes to addressing psycho-emotional problems in children as it has the capacity to tap into the hidden content of a child’s psyche that may not be accessible through words. Art making can by pass defence mechanisms that prevent access to deep-seated conflicts.
Very importantly, art therapists work through metaphors in the child’s artwork thus, if some trauma or difficult emotional content surfaces through art making, it can be processed in a safe and non-confrontational way. Art therapy is a safe therapeutic intervention as it avoids re-traumatization from exposure to difficult memories.
A 5-year-old’s expression of her trauma
Art therapists are also trained to direct negative emotions into creative acts through prudent use of art material. Clay may be pounded or kneaded, scratched and poked in order to express anger or frustration just as paint may be splashed or paper torn and crushed to channelize aggressive affect into appropriate expression.
Art making, whether in the form of seemingly random scribbles and doodles or skilful images and sculptures is an expression of the unconscious. Thus, to partake of art therapy absolutely no skill in art making is necessary. In fact I have come across children who do not show any inclination to draw or paint yet can be tempted to engage in acts of creation that lead to inner expression.
A child cannot convey with words what they are not aware of; and some children may not have the ability to speak. You will be amazed to find what can be achieved through the simplest forms of creativity and relational art making with an art therapist.
