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Abstract

Research is still needed to promote the development of structured art-based programs in prisons to strengthen socio-emotional skills. “Free Spirits” emerges as an innovative intervention that involves artistic and participatory co-creation dynamics in theater and music. A mixed-method quasi-experimental study was conducted in a Portuguese prison. Using self-report measures (emotional regulation, resilient coping) and a Go/No-Go paradigm (inhibitory control), quantitative data were collected pre- and posttest. A focus group was used to obtain participant’s perceptions. The results suggested the effectiveness of the intervention in promoting more adaptive emotional management strategies and in the improvement of inhibitory control.

Keywords

artistic intervention imprisoned people psychosocial adjustment mixed methods

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“Free Spirits”: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of an Artistic Intervention Program Targeting Imprisoned People

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Keywords

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