Year
2017
Season
Summer
Paper Type
Master's Thesis
College
College of Arts and Sciences
Degree Name
Master of Arts in General Psychology (MAGP)
Department
Psychology
NACO controlled Corporate Body
University of North Florida. Department of Psychology
Committee Chairperson
Dr. Tracy Alloway
Second Advisor
Dr. Jody Nicholson
Rights Statement
http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/
Department Chair
Dr. Lori Lange
College Dean
Dr. Daniel Moon
Abstract
This study explores whether the observed effects of coloring on anxiety and stress apply to the elderly. Two coloring activities were administered to elderly participants to evaluate the effects on stress, anxiety, and working memory. The Mini Mental State Examination was used to establish cognitive level. The Perceived Stress Scale and Brief State Trait Anxiety Inventory were administered to obtain pretest and posttest scores on stress and anxiety levels. Working memory was measured using the Backward Digit Recall to test if the potential calming effects improve working memory. A near significant increase in stress scores was demonstrated in the mandala condition. Also, a significant increase was found in backward digit recall scores in the doodling condition. The mandala difficulty and allotted time may negate the anticipated calming effects. Those wanting to implement art therapy should provide the required materials, then allow participants to self-select the activity, and time to dedicate.
Suggested Citation
Lepere, Alexus, "Can Coloring Reduce Stress and Increase Working Memory in the Elderly?" (2017). UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 751.
https://digitalcommons.unf.edu/etd/751
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