Slöjdens utsträckta hand - i sociala verksamheter

Abstract

Although, craft activities are routinely used in different care-institutions based on the knowledge of craft being good for your health, the crafting society has difficulties using that as an argument. It is said to be little research evidence supporting the theoretical statements of crafts positive effects. Different kinds of social organisations use craft as a treatment medium. Therefore, this study aims to shed a light on how craft can be used as a tool to empowerment in social organisations, where the members or visitors are socially excluded. In addition, it also intend to examine what effects the crafting can lead to. The study is based on three interviews carried out with craft-instructors on three different organisations, whereof one has its basis in India. An analyse of the material showed that the creation process were independent. The individuals chose the technique, material or product themselves, whereas a more strict form of creation process was carried out in India. Further, the craft activities was in the Swedish based organisations determined on the interests of their members or visitors, while it in India was based on tradition and the hope of generating money. Although the process was a bit different the results indicate that craft has positive effects on the individual, since it creates a sense of belonging, personal growth and makes people see things in a different light. Furthermore, it appeared that the craft-instructor has an important part in the positive effects of crafting. The study detects that the instructor must be knowledgeable in the techniques and materials used otherwise, it may instead have a negative impact. But it is the individual who by herself during the crafting finds the tools to help herself. The supervisor only creates the conditions for it to be possible. Finally, the use of crafts as an empowerment tool, affect people personally to evolve and create better perceived health as well as in a larger perspective, craft has the potential to get people to take control of their own lives and to influence the society at large.