A Self-Empowering Holistic Art-Based Model Designed to Promote Emotional Well-Being, Coping Skills, and Self-Esteem in Youth

摘要

The purpose of this research was to investigate how an art class could incorporate art therapy techniques to promote a positive holistic change in children and young adults' self-esteem, and personal identity and help them cope with traumatic experiences, societal problems, and distinctly different cultural environments. The art teacher questioned if familiarizing herself with a child's social economical background, family history, personal thoughts and behavioral characteristics could help a child or young adult through their emotional problems and help them become better individuals.;By implementing art therapy and action research in the construction of an art curriculum the pedagogy became fluid and organic. The views of the students were integrated into the planning of the projects. The research attempted to create an art room environment where students that were influenced by everyday stressful moments found at home and at school and were disengaged in school, could find a nurturing and safe space to create artwork and open-up and reflect on their lives.