A literature review, drawing on 22 credible research papers, provides compelling evidence of the value of arts programmes in prisons, says its author, Neil Wallace, Arts in Corrections Advisor Kaiārahi a Toi Ara Poutama, Arts Access Aotearoa.

The literature review explores the impact of arts programmes in prisons, drawing on both quantitative and qualitative research in New Zealand and internationally.

Using research and literature analysis expertise gained through his Master of Design studies, Neil provides evidence of how arts programmes contribute to rehabilitation by influencing behaviour, providing emotional healing and reducing re-offending.

“These programmes improve emotional regulation and social skills, help reduce re-offending and can play a crucial role in rehabilitation and reintegration on release,” Neil says.

The review highlights the importance of supporting culturally responsive arts programmes to ensure they continue to foster positive transformation.

At a Toi o Taraika Arts Wellington meeting in September 2024, Hon Paul Goldsmith, Minister for Justice and for Arts, Culture and Heritage, commented on the “therapeutic power of the arts” and their potential in prison to support rehabilitation programmes and reduce recidivism.

“The Minister called for ‘rigour’ and more evidence to inform policy and funding decisions,” Neil says. “Our research provides a persuasive argument for more investment in Arts in Corrections as a rehabilitative tool, and we’re keen to share this research with the government.

“We all know there is less crime on our streets and fewer victims if people are rehabilitated and successfully re-integrated back into society.

“We also know that it costs an estimated $150,000 a year to keep a person in prison and so investing in arts programmes that help reduce recidivism makes economic sense.”

The following themes summarise Neil’s literature review, Arts, Identity and Rehabilitation: How Quantitative and Qualitative Studies Illuminate Prison Arts Programmes.

You can read Neil’s research report [download link]

Behaviour, emotional control and cognitive development

The review begins by examining quantitative research, which measures the positive effects of arts programmes on inmate behaviour, emotional control and cognitive development. For example, Brewster (2014), and Littman and Sliva (2021) show that arts programmes help improve prisoners’ self-confidence, social skills and emotional regulation.

These measurable improvements are crucial in reducing disciplinary issues and supporting successful reintegration after release. Further, research like Cohen et al (2016) demonstrates that music programmes reduce aggression and strengthen relationships, confirming the long-term value of arts interventions.

Reducing re-offending

Arts programmes play a significant role in reducing re-offending. For example, studies such as Brewster (2014) and a meta-analysis by Miles and Clarke (2006) demonstrate that longer-term participation in creative activities leads to better behavioural outcomes and lower rates of recidivism.

This research highlights how arts programmes help inmates develop self-discipline, empathy and emotional regulation – critical factors in reducing the likelihood of re-offending.

Boosting education and cognitive skills

In addition, arts programmes are shown to boost education and cognitive skills. For example, Johnson (2008) and Tett et al (2011) illustrate how arts programmes foster critical thinking and encourage educational engagement. Prisoners who participate in these programmes are more likely to pursue further education, which is linked to reduced recidivism.

While quantitative research provides the metrics to track results, qualitative narratives explain how these results are achieved. Qualitative research delves into the personal and emotional transformations that arts programmes foster. For example, Woodland (2021) shows how prison theatre helps inmates shed their criminal identities and explore new, positive roles.

Qualitative insights: the "how" behind the data

Similarly, Hazou and Daniels (2022) explain how creative expression empowers prisoners to regain control over their lives, offering them hope and the ability to envision a better future. These qualitative insights provide the "how" behind the data, showing the emotional and social growth that arts programmes nurture.

Creating a more positive environment in prisons

The review also discusses how arts programmes foster a sense of community within prisons. For example, Barak and Stebbins (2017) describe the concept of “witnessing” in creative arts therapies, where prisoners feel their emotions are validated, helping them heal emotionally. A study by Cohen (2007) on prison choirs illustrates how group activities build social bonds, reduce stress and encourage cooperation, creating a more positive environment in prisons.

Culturally appropriate arts programmes

The review emphasises the importance of culturally appropriate arts programmes, especially for Māori prisoners. For example, Hazou et al. (2021) demonstrate how integrating the Māori model of Te Whare Tapa Whā into arts programmes supports the emotional and cultural needs of indigenous prisoners, enhancing their rehabilitation process.