The Use of the Naglieri Draw-a-Person Test of Cognitive Development: A Study with Clinical and Research Implications for Art Therapists Working with Children

Abstract

This longitudinal study investigates the use of the Naglieri Draw-a-Person Test (DAP), a measurement of normal drawing development in children, for its appropriateness for use by art therapists. A total of 306 "man," "woman," and "self " drawings were collected from 34 children, ages 5 to 10, in a primary school over a 1-year period in three phases. Children were divided into three age groups: Primary One (ages 5 to 6, n=12), Primary Three (ages 7 to 8, n=10), and Primary Five (ages 9 to 10, n=12). As predicted, scores increased both by age and over time. There were no significant differences in scores between the three types of drawings when made in the same session. No significant sex differences were found. It was concluded that the Naglieri DAP would be a useful tool for art therapists in the assessment of cognitive development as well as a model for research design.