Art is a part of human psychology. Whether individuals discuss art, silently reflect on art or actually create art, it all comes from the same shared characteristic of human communication. That is, the ability to take a concept from one medium and express it meaningfully in another, and to understand the expressions of others. Art taps innate feelings and emotions and promotes their expression in culturally significant and accepted ways. Artistic experiences stimulate people to better understand their feelings as they strive to express them in various media.
Art also promotes understanding the feelings and emotions of others.
Arts programs are uniquely suited for helping youth learn new attitudes, accept new beliefs and learn new ways of living that prevent them from using alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. Self-discipline is a valued life skill that results from active engagement in arts programs. In theater, for example, students have to learn to work individually and as members of a team. Actors develop discipline to carry out their own responsibilities and have to learn the responsibilities of their fellow actors in order to develop a play's plot. Other crew members contribute to creating a set, organizing props, providing adequate lighting and creating costumes.