Abstract
This study surveyed an adolescent population around the time of elementary to middle school
transition. The elementary to middle school transition period has the potential to influence
adolescents for the rest of their lives. A mixed methods convergent parallel design was used to
examine the following research question: Can the therapeutic use of art supplies impact
potential anxiety/depression in elementary students going to middle school next year? An
extensive literature review examined adolescent populations, relevant psychological theories
regarding adolescent development, common obstacles faced in educational transition, and ways
to ease those obstacles. There is little research on the therapeutic use of art supplies during the
elementary to middle school transition. An online survey consisting of twelve questions was
conducted with fifth grade students (N=9). A comparison was made of quantitative and
qualitative information collected at the same time. The quantitative findings revealed which
emotions students reported around the time of elementary to middle school transition and their
experience with art supplies. The qualitative data described common emotions, potential art
images, and thoughts on art therapy. Two overall themes emerged: emotions-based responses
and arts-based responses. A convergent parallel analysis strongly suggests a link between the
therapeutic use of art supplies and effects on potential anxiety/depression in fifth grade students
preparing to enter middle school. The discussion compares results, explains the limitations and
strengths of the study, and provides recommendations for future studies in support of the
research question.
