Date of Award

Spring 5-17-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Major

Expressive Therapies

First Advisor

Dr. Meg Chang, EdD, BC-DMT, LCAT

Abstract

This literature review explores how the linguistic phenomenon of code-switching can be applied to expressive arts and expressive arts therapy to describe the experience of Black expressive therapists. The review outlines the evolution of the term, reasons why individuals switch codes, and how this affects their experience. The understanding of code-switching is then examined in expressive arts and the expressive arts therapy field. A history and understanding of code-switching in Black communities is also explored, connecting Black experiences of code-switching and expressive arts therapy programs. A discussion suggests that culturally relevant practices are implicitly discouraged due to dominant expectations. Future research suggestions include under-researched cultural practices and less obvious applications of code-switching.

Comments

Thank you, friends, family, mentors, and faculty. To reiterate, my experience and my research reflect one of many experiences throughout the Black communities. I implore all readers to balance understanding the multiplicity of Black experiences while acknowledging the lived experiences of many individuals.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

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