How Nature Calls in a More Secure Sense of Self in the Face of Perfectionism: An Expressive Arts Therapy Journey to Self-Identity

Author

Marissa AldieriFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-22-2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MA - Master of Arts

Department

Expressive Therapies

Advisor

Dr. Ara Parker

Abstract

This thesis explores the relational dimensions of perfectionism, expressive arts therapy (ExAT), and the more-than-human natural world as these components influence the development and maintenance of the “sense of self.” This term refers to a perception of the “self” as a set of traits and beliefs that shape an individual’s perceived purpose in the world, often heavily influenced by external societal pressures at a young age. “I’m not good enough” often rings in the ears of educators, parents, coaches, expressive arts therapists, and other mental health workers as the fear of vulnerability, judgment, and failure inhibits creative impulse and intuitive identity. The query began with how expressive arts therapy can aid in managing perfectionism and whether using nature as a co-therapist could facilitate and deepen interpersonal connections. This paper reviews literature on nature-based therapies and examines the author’s own experience working with nature as a third entity in the therapeutic relationship through an autoethnographic arts-based research approach. Findings advocate that nature informed ExAT can invite the innermost authentic self into a therapeutic conversation, give it space for healing, and aid in combating perfectionistic tendencies.

Creative Commons License

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

Recommended Citation

Aldieri, Marissa, "How Nature Calls in a More Secure Sense of Self in the Face of Perfectionism: An Expressive Arts Therapy Journey to Self-Identity" (2021). Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses. 461.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_theses/461