ARTISTS' VIEWS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to identify and describe the sense-groups of artists' views of psychological well-being. Psychological well-being is considered as a multicomponent concept, including cognitive, emotional and behavioral components. 55 artists aged between 19 and 60 took part in the survey. A structured interview about psychological well-being was conducted. Data processing was carried out by means of content analysis. Eight sense-groups related to artists' perceptions of psychological well-being were identified: relationships with others, calm, harmony, mindfulness, satisfaction, mental and physical health and financial well-being. The sense-groups of artists' representations show that the emotional component predominates over the cognitive and behavioral components. However, members of the creative professions find it difficult to manage and regulate their emotional state. Their high sensitivity could be a possible reason. In order to find a foothold in life, they resort to the support of their immediate environment and the establishment of a dialogue with their target audience. Meaningfulness becomes a source of understanding themselves, their thoughts and motives. They become responsible not only for themselves and their lives, but also for the cultural products they create. Presenting their work, where quality prevails over quantity, is part of their self-presentation and self-expression. The study results focus on artists' everyday perceptions of psychological well-being and can be used by psychologists and teachers at secondary and higher education institutions who interact both with students and creative professionals to develop preventive programs aimed at improving the well-being and quality of life of artists.