Dance of the Pen versus Mandala activities to reduce anxiety during chemotherapy

Comparing the Effects of Art Therapy and Mandala Application on State Anxiety Levels in Chemotherapy Patients: A Randomized Controlled Study

Not applicable Interventional Atlas University · NCT07435597

This project will test whether a short 'Dance of the Pen' art session or mandala drawing can lower immediate anxiety in adults receiving chemotherapy.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorAtlas University Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations1 site (Istanbul)
Trial IDNCT07435597 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This randomized, single-blind, two-group pre-test/post-test trial will enroll 60 adults receiving chemotherapy at two hospitals in Istanbul. Participants will be assigned by chemotherapy session day to either a single 30–60 minute 'Dance of the Pen' art session or a mandala activity, with measures taken before and after. Outcomes include state anxiety measured by the STAI-I, a Distress Thermometer, and participant satisfaction ratings. The study compares immediate changes in state anxiety and reports acceptability of each intervention.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Adults (18+) receiving chemotherapy who are literate, speak Turkish, able to consent, and do not have a current psychiatric diagnosis or use psychiatric medication are ideal candidates.

Not a fit: Patients with speech or comprehension impairments, current psychiatric diagnoses or psychiatric medication use, non-Turkish speakers, or those already enrolled in similar programs may not benefit or be eligible.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, these brief, low-cost activities could reduce short-term anxiety and distress during chemotherapy visits.

How similar studies have performed: Previous small and nonrandomized studies have suggested art and mandala activities can reduce anxiety, but randomized evidence is limited.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Must be 18 years of age or older
* Must be receiving chemotherapy treatment
* Must be willing to participate in the research
* Must be literate
* Must be able to speak and understand Turkish

Exclusion Criteria:

* -Having any speech or comprehension impairment
* Being treated with other forms of treatment
* Having any accompanying psychiatric diagnosis
* Using any psychiatric medication
* Being enrolled in another program using a similar method could affect the study's outcome

Where this trial is running

Istanbul

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Oncologic DiseaseChemotherapymandalaart therapyoncologychemotherapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.