title: The value of the study of the psychopathology of expression.
abstract: The study of the psychopathology of expression deals with abnormal tendencies and themes in paintings and creative products of mental and other patients, and the same kinds of themes in the work of normal artists. Its values are as follows: for diagnosis in revealing patients' problems through observation of deviations from normal tendencies and themes in their art; for treatment in giving insight and understanding to the patient; in relation to modern art because it makes clear what is often confused and bizarre; in relation to classical art because some of the same themes and tendencies are often present and it helps us to understand them; in relation to the study of creativity because sources of inspiration become apparent when underlying themes and tendencies are revealed. It cannot, however, explain fully the real nature of art.
mesh_terms: D001154:Art; D006801:Humans; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D011386:Projective Techniques