Comparing Research Trends in Two Main Journals Over Time: A Representation of Art Therapy’s Developing Professional Identity?

This study explored art therapy research published in two main association journals, the Art Therapy Journal of AATA (A.T.) and the International Journal of Art Therapy (I.J.A.T.), between 1996–2022. The number of publications, research methods, and authors' education were systematically collected and compared. Findings suggest an overall significant increase in published research, qualitative papers ratio per issue, and first authors Ph.D. level in both journals. Significant differences were found between the two journals: A.T.'s publication presents more quantitative research papers compared to I.J.A.T., while IJAT's published more qualitative research papers. The discussion explored art therapy research as identity development manifestation.