Can Coloring Mandalas Reduce Anxiety? A Replication Study
June 13th, 2012
United States
Renée van der Vennet, Susan Serice
This replication study examines whether coloring mandalas can reduce anxiety by comparing anxiety levels before and after structured coloring activities. It builds on earlier research to assess the consistency of effects and to further understand how simple art tasks may relate to changes in emotional state and attention.
Art Therapy
DOI: 10.1080/07421656.2012.680047
Posted byJai Narayan
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Abstract/Description
This experimental study replicated Curry and Kasser's (2005) research that tested whether coloring a mandala would reduce anxiety. After inducing an anxious mood via a writing activity, participants were randomly assigned to three groups that colored either on a mandala design, on a plaid design, or on a blank paper. Anxiety level was measured with the State Anxiety Inventory at baseline, after the writing exercise, and after coloring. Results support the hypothesis that coloring a mandala reduces anxiety to a significantly greater degree than coloring on a plaid design or coloring on a blank paper. Implications for the field of art therapy are discussed.
