Defining "Arts Participation" for Public Health Research

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Arts and Health Research
• Health Promotion

Background:

• Arts participation is increasingly linked to positive health outcomes globally.
• A clear definition of arts participation is needed for public health research.
• Existing definitions primarily serve the arts sector, not public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an inclusive definition of arts participation for public health research.
• To guide a national research agenda on arts in public health.
• To refine and expand upon previous definitions of arts participation.

Main Methods:

• Convergent mixed-methods study with sequential elements.
• Iterative development involving literature review, expert input, and public perspectives.
• Four phases of data collection, analysis, and integration to refine the definition.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive definition of arts participation was developed.
• The definition includes various modes of engagement and a broad range of art forms.
• The definition emphasizes inclusivity, surpassing previous frameworks.

Conclusions:

• The developed definition can improve the quality and precision of arts and health research.
• It facilitates more inclusive search strategies for evidence synthesis in arts and health.
• This definition aids researchers in creating effective survey instruments for arts participation.