Date of Award

Spring 5-18-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MAE - Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies

Department

Expressive Therapies

Advisor

Kelvin Ramirez

Abstract

Experiences of loneliness and social isolation among college students pose a concern for emerging adults’ mental and physical health, as well as greater impacts on university systems across the country. While social isolation and loneliness are subjective experiences, there are a range of factors rooted in developmental psychology and sociocultural theory that influence the rising rates and acuity of loneliness. Attachment theorists posit that secure attachment early in life can impact how individuals make lasting interpersonal connections long after their childhood. Secure and insecure attachment styles combined with the dramatic transition to college for a young adult are influencing factors of the loneliness experience. A review of the literature found that art therapy can mitigate the negative effects of loneliness such as anxiety, depression, and stress. Interventions that involved connecting with peers in group therapy settings and challenging social cognitions also mitigated the negative effects of loneliness in reported studies. These findings offer support for implementing art therapy to foster social connection and mitigate stress and anxiety related to loneliness in college counseling settings.

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