Background and Aims: This quasi-experimental study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of symbolic expression methods (e.g., drawing, creative drama) on reversing negative self-concept in children aged 9 to 12. Using a mixed-methods approach, the intervention was uniquely tailored based on Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences to test the moderating role of activity customization in maximizing therapeutic efficacy.
Method: A pretest–posttest control group design was employed. The statistical sample included 40 children (20 girls and 20 boys) with identified negative self-concept in Mashhad, Iran, who were randomly assigned to groups. The experimental group participated in 48 symbolic expression sessions customized to their individual MI profiles. Data were collected via the Piers–Harris Children's Self-Concept Scale and the MI Questionnaire, and analyzed using Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA).
Findings and Conclusion: Results showed a highly significant reduction in negative self-concept in the experimental group compared to the control group (F=40.35, p<0.001). This finding strongly confirms the effectiveness of symbolic expression methods. The main conclusion is that strategically tailoring expressive interventions to a child’s dominant intelligence maximizes the therapeutic effect, offering a powerful, personalized approach to the sustainable reversal of negative self-concept.