Publications and Abstracts

Mariagnese Cattaneo, PhD, ATR

Cattaneo, M. (2003). Opening the Book: Performance in 5 parts [Performance art]. Cambridge, MA: Lesley University.

Cattaneo, M. (2002). Opening the Book: Performance in 5 parts [Performance art]. Washington, DC: American Art Therapy Association, National Conference.

Cattaneo, M. (1997) The power of language in the helping relationship. Co-author with Susan Spaniol in: Spaniol, L., et al. Psychological and Social Aspects of Psychiatric Disability. Boston, Boston University.

Cattaneo, M. (1994) Addressing culture and values in the training of art therapists. Art Therapy. Vol 11(3), pp. 184-186.

Abstract: Discusses the importance of addressing culture, values, and aesthetics in the training of art therapists. The author illustrates how students can be guided to discover and examine the influence that culture has on their own and on others' perceptions of different modes of artistic expression. Students should be given the opportunity to gain an awareness of their personal and cultural backgrounds with their attendant values and biases. Also, they should explore culturally based differences in aesthetics that deemphasize the role of universality in artistic expression. This newly gained sensibility can give direction to their therapeutic work with clients. (Copyright 1999 APA/PsycINFO, all rights reserved)

Spaniol, S. and Cattaneo, M. (1994) The power of language in the art therapeutic relationship. Art Therapy. Vol 11(4), pp. 266-270.

Abstract: The impact of language usage on the art therapeutic relationship is examined to raise critical awareness of how biases become imbedded in language, how language usage maintains differences in power, and how to monitor language use in professional practice. Cognitive, social, and cultural roots of language development are discussed. The complexity of communication systems used by art therapists, the language of the treatment team, and the art therapy terminology are explored. Using respectful but accurate language when speaking and writing about clients and their art can have a favorable impact on the outcome of art therapy treatment. Language can be empowering. It is possible that addressing and discussing clients in respectful terms will increase their self-esteem and help build a more positive sense of identity. Suggestions are offered for art therapists to improve written and verbal communications. (Copyright 1999 APA/PsycINFO, all rights reserved.)

Cattaneo, M. and Malchiodi, C. (1988) Creative Process/Therapeutic Process - Parallels and Interfaces. Art Therapy, Journal of the AATA, Vol. 5 (2), July.