Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Poetry Reading And Writing Therapy For People With Mental disabilities

Abstract

This study aims to describe using Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to support poetry reading and writing for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Intellectual disabilities often hinder verbal and written self- expression, yet reading and writing poetry can be a means of expressive therapy with emotional and psychological benefits. In this context, AI is used as a creative medium to assist in developing diction, metaphors, and poetic structure that align with the feelings and imagination of individuals with intellectual disabilities. This study employed a descriptive qualitative approach involving participants from a social organization for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Through observation, interviews, and documentation of poetry work, the study found that using AI (such as ChatGPT or other AI- based creative writing applications) can increase participants' self-confidence, active participation, and the quality of their literary work. AI acts as a dialogue partner, providing word choices, guiding questions, and instant feedback, without the pressure of judgment typically present in human interactions. The resulting poems reflect the feelings, experiences, and inner worlds of individuals with intellectual disabilities, which were previously difficult to express verbally or in writing. It can be concluded that AI has great potential for use in pedagogical and therapeutic approaches for individuals with intellectual disabilities, particularly in reading and writing. However, using this technology still requires human support to maintain the emotional well- being of participants. These findings are expected to contribute to developing inclusive education models based on humanistic technology.