The Therapeutic Value of Asemic Writing: A Qualitative Exploration

ABSTRACT

Asemic or asemantic writing is a style of written self-expression that can be advantageous when working with individuals who have no words for feelings. The purpose of the present study was to comparatively explore the therapeutic value of expressive writing and asemic writing using a sample of alexithymic-schizophrenic adults. Participants (N = 10), assigned either to the expressive writing or the asemic writing treatment condition, journaled for 15 minutes for seven days and provided introspective reports at the end of the study. Thematic analysis of the reports suggests that asemic writing facilitates self-expression and temporarily improves mood. Participants from the expressive writing condition, however, reported difficulties in verbal expression of emotions and mild distress following the exercise, but had improved awareness and understanding of their emotional experiences.

KEYWORDS:

• Alexithymia
• asemic writing
• creativity in counseling
• expressive writing
• schizophrenia
• self-help

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Christine N. Winston

Christine N. Winston and Hemali Maher are doctoral students at the Department of Psychology, Women’s Christian College, Chennai, India.

Nazneen Mogrelia

Nazneen Mogrelia is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology, Women’s Christian College, Chennai, India.