Graduation Date

2023

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Project Type

Mixed Methods

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy

Program

Art Therapy

Program Director

Richard Carolan, Phd, ATR-BC

First Reader

Erin Partridge, Phd, ATR-BC

Second Reader

Gwen Sanders, MFT, ART-BC

Abstract

This study explores the Hispanic and Latino/x/e cultures within the United States, with a particular focus on the concept of identity within these communities and its implications for third and later generations. Data were collected during the pandemic via an online survey and art directive. The student researcher used the Identity Denial Scale (Albuja et al., 2019) to measure how often the participants’ identity is denied within the United States and then used an art therapy prompt to invite participants to create their own self-portrait in conjunction with their authentic self and self-image. Qualitative data were also used in response to a vignette portraying a character experiencing imposter syndrome. Whereas 51 people signed the consent form for the project, 12 completed the study. First-generation (n = 3), second-generation (n = 6), and third- generation (n = 3) individuals identifying as Latina or Hispanic participated. First- and second- generation participants scored low but still had problems with their identity. Third-generation participants scored the highest on the Identity Denial Scale but coped well with due to familial ties and support. Overall, based on the qualitative data collected, the findings of this small study showed that the younger participants would benefit from therapeutic intervention. The third- generation conveyed the feeling that their identity was denied but they conveyed the notion that their place was secure.

IRB Number

S2021-005

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