Internal Locus of Control and Retablos: The Application of Art Therapy with HIV Positive Gay Men
Graduation Date
Spring 2006
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Document Form
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Degree Granting Institution
Notre Dame de Namur University
Program Name
Art Therapy
Dean
Lizbeth Martin, PhD
First Reader
Richard Carolan, EdD, ATR-BC
Second Reader
Gwen Sanders, MFT, ART-BC
Abstract
Retablos are paintings on tin created to honor that which inspires, to commemorate a miracle, or to make a wish. This traditional Mexican art form is rich with history and possibilities for healing. This thesis examines the history of the Retablo, and how it can be used with HIV positive Gay Latino men to foster greater sense of internal locus of control and increased quality of life. A total of six gay Latino men participated in a six- week workshop in which they created their own Retablos and answered questions surrounding themes of poverty, racism, and homophobia, and pride in their final product. The artwork was then examined for interpersonal meaning. The result of this research supports the utilization of Retablos as an art therapy intervention.