Graduation Year
2026
Document Type
Open Access Senior Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Department
Psychology
Reader 1
Stacey Wood
Reader 2
Egamaria Alacam
Terms of Use & License Information
Abstract
Sexual assault is one of the most prevalent sources of trauma among females. While still requiring more research, therapeutic horticulture (TH), also known as gardening therapy, has so far shown promising results regarding trauma recovery. In this study, I seek to discover how TH can aid in female sexual assault recovery. To determine its impact, I will conduct a three-month experiment with two groups: those who receive cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and those who receive CBT plus TH. I will specifically measure three common side effects survivors face: dissociation, shame, and PTSD. These categories will be measured through surveys and compared at the start and end of the study. Results will likely show a greater decrease in all three variables for the CBT plus TH group compared to those who exclusively receive CBT. Further research into a broader range of therapeutic modalities is essential to ensure that all trauma survivors have access to effective avenues for recovery.
Recommended Citation
Larsen-Teskey, Fiona E., "Roots to recovery: How therapeutic horticulture can heal sexual trauma" (2026). Scripps Senior Theses. 2858.
https://scholarship.claremont.edu/scripps_theses/2858
