Lifting the Voices of Second-Generation Latinos in the Community Through Film
Graduation Date
Fall 2013
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
John Lemmon, PhD
First Reader
Amy Backos, PhD, ATR-BC
Second Reader
Jennifer Myers Harrison PsyD, DAAETS, ATR-BC
Abstract
The intent of this thesis grant proposal is to secure funding for an art therapy program utilizing motion picture techniques and Narrative therapy, with second- generation Hispanic youth. The group aims to support the identity process of teens whose parents emigrated from a Latin country, primarily Mexico. These adolescents, situated between Mexican and American culture, have a complex identity formation process and tend to be at-risk for delinquency and poor mental health outcomes. The group aims to increase self-esteem, self-identity and ethnic identity integration. Participants will document their experiences weekly though photo, culminating in the production of their own compelling short films to be screened in a film festival.