Can Textiles Improve Emotional Wellbeing?

Authors

Abstract

“As a textile designer, I am very interested in challenging perceptions of what a textile can be,” says Kristen Tynan, whose master’s thesis, “Seeking Solace,” explored the creation of textiles that provide specific tactile benefits.

It’s known that tactile stimuli help calm negative emotional sensations. Thus, children may seek a favorite blanket or toy, and adults may use more reflexive, inconspicuous strategies like light foottapping or employ stress balls and fidget spinners. But those tools are primarily stand-alone objects marketed toward children or people with neurological challenges such as autism spectrum disorders.

Recommended Citation

(2021) "Can Textiles Improve Emotional Wellbeing?," Thomas Jefferson University Research Magazine: Vol. 2: Iss. 1, Article 35.
Available at: https://jdc.jefferson.edu/researchmagazine/vol2/iss1/35