Bibliotherapy: The Therapeutic use of Fiction and Poetry in Mental Health

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Published: Jul 31, 2018
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5750/ijpcm.v7i3.648
Keywords:
Bibliotherapy narrative medicine poetry fiction literature mental health person centered medicine person centered psychiatry

Main Article Content

Allan Peterkin
Psychiatry Resident (PGY4), University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
Smrita Grewal
Psychiatry Resident (PGY4), University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.

Abstract

Background: An overview of the way in which bibliotherapy has been defined and implemented historically is provided.Objectives: The purpose of this paper is to examine the effectiveness of using fiction and poetry as a therapeutic modality in mental health. Methods: A systematic review of the literature was conducted following the elements of the 2009 PRISMA statement. Results: This literature review demonstrated a lack of empirical studies examining the therapeutic effect of poetry or fiction in a mental health context. However, three studies indicated benefit for patients with symptoms of depression or anxiety, or for those experiencing difficulties coping with a diagnosis of cancer. Bibliotherapy can however be considered to be a promising modality within the growing field of narrative medicine. Conclusions: The use of poetry or fiction in therapy appears to be beneficial when used in a group context with a skilled facilitator. Larger randomized control trials examining this form of bibliotherapy in a variety of mental health conditions and settings are now required.

Article Details

Issue
Vol. 7 No. 3 (2017)
Section
Regular Articles

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