Using figure drawings to assess psychological well-being among colorectal cancer patients before and after creation of intestinal stomas: A brief report

This study aimed to examine the impact of stoma on the psychological well-being of colorectal cancer patients as reflected in their self-figure drawings. Twenty-four colorectal cancer patients referred to surgery were administered self-report questionnaires and were asked to draw themselves, 12 of these patients were administered the same questionnaire and drew a second self-figure drawing 3 months later. Results indicated a significant decrease in level of satisfaction in family domain after 3 months, and shakier body lines and specific additional features representing the stoma patch and the tumor were noted in the drawings.