FRQ Summer-Internship Scholarship with Jasmine Piché

Jasmine Piché is a fourth year undergraduate student in the Psychology program.

The focus of Jasmine’s summer research internship was centered around art-based intervention programs designed, by Dr. Catherine Malboeuf-Hurtubise, for elementary students. The project investigates a diverse range of mediums, including drawing, painting, sculpting, and engaging practices like meditation and mindfulness, movement and dance therapy, and literature tailored for children. The study extends further to encompass areas such as positive psychology, philosophy tailored to children, outdoor-based activities, and the principles of self-determination theory. By investigating this multifaceted approach, the research seeks to uncover the potential benefits of these interventions in fostering creativity, emotional well-being, and personal growth among young learners. Jasmine chose this research topic from her love of working with children and the fascination that comes with them. The notion of art as an educative medium, particularly for children, further fueled her interest. Exploring how art-based interventions can nurture young minds, foster personal growth, and provide an alternative means of education became a compelling drive for her research interest.

The primary objectives and research questions driving the study revolve around several key areas: 1) explore the impact of art-based intervention programs on the mental health and overall well-being of elementary students, 2) seek to investigate children’s perceptions of art-based activities and 3) address the acceptability and feasibility of implementing such art-based programs within an educational context. By addressing these objectives and research questions, the study aims to shed light on the multifaceted benefits and implications of art-based interventions for elementary students. Dr. Malboeuf-Hurtubise’s research methodology uses a qualitative approach to incorporate elements of a mixed-methods strategy. Following each art-based session throughout the study, focus groups enabled a collective exploration of the experiences and insights gained by the elementary students. Additionally, individual interviews will be conducted with the children, allowing for a more in-depth understanding of their personal journeys and the impact of the art-based interventions on their well-being and development.

This research project contributes to the existing knowledge by acknowledging that art-based interventions can foster creativity and facilitate emotional expression among children, and this study offers a new perspective by examining the adaptation of such interventions specifically within a school setting. By focusing on the integration of art-based activities into the curriculum, the research advances our understanding of how these interventions can be effectively implemented as a structured educational tool. Moreover, the project explores which artistic medium holds the greatest appeal and efficacy for children, and one of the distinct contributions of this research lies in its exploration of adapting art-based interventions for children with various special needs, including learning disabilities and language impairments. By customizing these interventions to accommodate diverse learning profiles, the study contributes to a more inclusive and holistic approach to education and therapy.

This research project provided Jasmine with a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience working with children from diverse backgrounds. By working directly with children and observing the effects of these interventions, she applied the theoretical knowledge learned during her undergraduate program to real-world scenarios. Jasmine plans to pursue a path in clinical psychology: “I am considering the possibility of obtaining a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. in this field. My aim is to advance my knowledge and expertise in clinical psychology, with a particular focus on providing therapeutic interventions and support to individuals facing mental health challenges.”