Date of Award
5-2020
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Holistic Health Studies
Department
Holistic Health
First Advisor
Carol Geisler
Department/School
Holistic Health Studies
Abstract
Body dissatisfaction among women is prevalent, affecting many facets of life and presenting few effective healing interventions for changing one’s body perception. In the qualitative contexts of the critical paradigm and an intuitive culture of inquiry, we used A/R/Tography with the four researchers also acting as participants. To describe how creative expression may change a woman’s deeply held perception of her body, we conducted and participated in a retreat focused on personal narratives, reflective journaling, storytelling, and individual creativity. Through the application of thematic analysis, we identified themes of community, exhaustion, hope, and insight. Results of this research suggest the potential for positive transformation in female body image perception by engaging in creative expression. Thus, women should be encouraged and empowered to participate in community-based events involving creative expression and storytelling as a modality for healing.
Recommended Citation
Jewison, Mary; McNiel, Alicia; Pettigrew, Crysia; and Sharpback, Carmelita. (2020). Turning Wounds into Wisdom: An Intuitive Inquiry into Healing Women’s Body Image through Creative Expression. Retrieved from Sophia, the St. Catherine University repository website: https://sophia.stkate.edu/ma_hhs/26