The effects of an art education program on competencies, coping, and well-being in outpatients with cancer—Results of a prospective feasibility study

The aim of this study was to develop an art education program for ambulatory patients with cancer and to assess its feasibility and possible effects. We conducted the workshops in groups of 4–8 participants. A total of 23 participants completed the entire art education program. Six patients dropped out, but neither of them dropped out because of program length. Some changes to the program were made after receiving feedback from the participants and the program length was augmented from 20 to 22 sessions. Anxiety and self-confidence improved during the course of the program, whereas coping and depression did not change.Results suggest that art education workshops with outpatients are feasible, but recruitment may be difficult, especially at the beginning. Based on the characteristics of the patients, special attention should be paid to establish a high-level of structure to the sessions, in order to provide the participants with enough safety for self-exploration and expression. The creation of an object, e.g. a book, may help in this prospect as well.

Research highlights▶ Art education workshops with outpatients are feasible. ▶ Recruitment may be difficult, especially at the beginning. ▶ High-level of structure is essential for ambulatory patients with cancer to provide safety for self-exploration. ▶ Anxiety and self-confidence improved during the course of the program. ▶ Coping and depression did not change.