The validity of the Draw-A-Person Test as an anxiety measure

This review examines the current status of research on indicators of anxiety in the Draw-A-Person Test (DAP). Experimental studies have used stress induction while correlational studies have typically employed the Manifest Anxiety Scale as criterion. Three scoring systems (Engle-Suppes, Handler, Royal) have included most of the available anxiety indices. Methodological problems with this research include failure to control for drawing quality and intelligence, confounding anxiety measurement with defensive response style, and inadequate validation of the scoring systems. Results of the review are summarized in eight specific conclusions.