Northfield Experiment

The Northfield Experiment, conducted in 1970 at Northfield Psychiatric Hospital in England, was a pioneering study focusing on the therapeutic use of art therapy for mental health patients. It involved allowing patients to create art as a form of self-expression and healing, with staff providing support rather than direct intervention. The experiment aimed to observe how engaging in creative activities could promote emotional well-being, reduce symptoms, and facilitate recovery. It highlighted the potential of arts-based therapies in mental health treatment, emphasizing a person-centered approach that values individual expression and autonomy.