THE CORRECTIVE POTENTIAL OF THE ART THERAPY METHOD IN OVERCOMING FEAR IN EARLY SCHOOL CHILDREN

Abstract

The article examines the corrective potential of the art therapy method in overcoming fears in children of primary school age. Fears are a natural part of a child's development, but their excessive expression can negatively affect the emotional state and social adaptation. Unfortunately, military operations in our country create serious psychoemotional challenges for children, especially those of primary school age, who are in a state of increased anxiety and fear. Children witness or even participate in traumatic events, such as shelling, displacement, loss of loved ones and living space. This can lead to the emergence or exacerbation of children's fears, such as fear of death, loss, darkness, loud noises and feelings of danger. In this context, art therapy is one of the most effective methods of psychological assistance. The article discusses the main techniques of art therapy, such as drawing, sculpting, collage, and their application in working with children's fears. The method helps to create a space for non-verbal self-expression, which is especially important for children who are not yet able to fully articulate their emotions. In the course of art therapy, the child transfers his fears to paper or other forms of creative activity, which contributes to the gradual reduction of anxiety and emotional stress. The authors also note the importance of therapeutic support during art sessions. Thanks to the empathetic attitude of the therapist and support in the creative process, the child gets a positive experience of overcoming his fears. Special attention is paid in the article to the psychological mechanisms through which art therapy contributes to the internal transformation of fears: catharsis, sublimation and symbolization. Thus, art therapy is an effective tool in correctional work with children of primary school age, helping not only to overcome fears, but also to form a more stable emotional balance, which positively affects the development of the child's communication and social skills.