Integrating aesthetics into advanced practice mental health nursing: commercial film as a suggested modality.

The purpose of this study was to explore the advantages and disadvantages of using feature films in teaching advanced practice mental health nursing. A phenomenological investigation was conducted of 11 master's student perspectives regarding the use of movies in an on-line course. According to the students, the disadvantages of movies were that films are time consuming to watch and often more dramatic than real-life situations. The advantages of using movies were that films are effective in promoting reflection and enhancing empathy. Students noted that movies poignantly portray emotional issues and are engaging in addition to being a good way both to present educational content and introduce ethical dilemmas. Using movies also may be effective with select clients as a once-removed way to introduce therapeutic discussions in outpatient practice.