ABSTRACT
Cognition is developed from experiences within the individual and through interactions in social environments. The evolution of learning occurs in the form of schemas. Schemas are the building blocks of cognition, and developmental theory informs us that cognition is a constructive process. Cognitive development leads to meaning-making through symbolic development. J. Piaget found that symbols are also developmental in nature and develop through interactions with one's environment. Constructivism is the philosophical basis of cognitive-behavioral art therapy (CBAT) and is the philosophy of how humans build knowledge and construct meaning. Meaning is constructed through thoughts, memories, symbols, and emotions. Constructivist philosophy and cognitive development are future-oriented ideas. Mental imagery is considered to be one of the main cognition functions as proposed by Eisner. The use of imagery in treatment is a major connection between behaviorism/cognitive-behavioral therapy and CBAT. Art-making in and of itself is a cognitive and constructivist process.
