The Effect of Mindfulness-Based Art Therapy in Nursing Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Critical thinking and self-confidence are important concepts for nursing students. This study aimed to investigate the effects of mindfulness-based art therapy (MBAT) on the critical thinking dispositions and self-confidence levels of nursing students. Method: A randomized controlled trial was conducted using a parallel-group design with pretest and posttest measurements. A total of 53 nursing students completed the study. The intervention group participated in an 8-week MBAT program, whereas the control group received no intervention during this period. Results: During the pretest phase, the intervention and control groups showed no statistically significant differences in their mean scores on the Critical Thinking Disposition and Self-Confidence scales ( p > .05). However, following the MBAT program, the intervention group showed notably higher mean scores than the control group in both the posttest and follow-up assessments ( p < .001). Conclusion: The findings indicate that MBAT effectively enhances critical thinking disposition and self-confidence levels in nursing students.