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The benefits of knitting for personal and social wellbeing in adulthood: findings from an international survey
- Authors:
- RILEY Jill, CORKHILL Betsan, MORRIS Clare
- Journal article citation:
- British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 76(2), 2013, pp.50-57.
- Publisher:
- Sage
There is increasing evidence that engaging in creative and meaningful occupation can impact positively on health and wellbeing. Research has concentrated on general occupational categories and less is known about the benefits of specific occupations. It has also tended to focus on visual or performing arts rather than domestic arts and crafts. This study aimed to identify the benefits of knitting for personal and social wellbeing as a prerequisite to investigating its therapeutic use. Portable, inexpensive and creative, knitting is experiencing a resurgence and new social acceptability. An online survey on an internet knitting site asked; why individuals knit, how it affects mood and thinking and whether it impacts on skill development. The age of the respondents (n=3,545) was skewed towards the younger groups (under 40 years). The majority were female, white and frequent knitters, who commonly reported knitting for relaxation, stress relief and creativity. There was a significant relationship between knitting frequency and feeling calm and happy. More frequent knitters also reported higher cognitive functioning. Knitting in a group impacted significantly on perceived happiness, improved social contact and communication with others. The authors suggest that knitting has significant psychological and social benefits, which can contribute to wellbeing and quality of life. As a skilled and creative occupation, it may have therapeutic potential and warrants further research.