The application of expressive art therapies for survivors of child sexual abuse.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to explore and summarize existing literature on the application of expressive art therapies like dance movement therapy (DMT), art therapy and music therapy among survivors of child sexual abuse (CSA).

METHOD: A narrative review was conducted following a structured search strategy. The search strategy involved identifying relevant studies from electronic databases, such as PubMed, APA PsycInfo, and Google Scholar, focusing on peer-reviewed articles and dissertations published between 2003 and 2024. The literature, studies, and empirical data pertaining to the application of expressive art therapies in meeting the requirements of CSA survivors are reviewed as part of the research process.

RESULTS

Research suggests that for survivors of CSA, DMT, music therapy, and art therapy offer a safe space for recovery that encourages hope, self-determination, and healthy relationships. These treatments encourage cognitive processing, emotional expression, and physical connectedness. However, there are shortcomings in the research including the lack of rigorous research methods and inclusion of long-term studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Adult survivors of CSA have a lot of promise for therapeutic interventions from expressive art therapies, which include DMT, art therapy, and music therapy. They provide survivors with invaluable support as they work toward empowerment and healing. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).