Taking Off the Mask; Identity Development with Queer Emerging Adults

Author

Lital DotanFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-18-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MA - Master of Arts

Department

Expressive Therapies

Advisor

Dr. Laura L. Wood

Abstract

This literature review examines the potential of superhero-based drama therapy as a tool to foster feelings of agency, community building, and identity formation in queer emerging adults. Identity formation in this population is disrupted by internalized sexual stigma and isolation due to minority stressors specific to queer emerging adults. Identity formation is a crucial aspect of the developmental stage of emerging adulthood and is essential to mental wellness. By reviewing the history of queer readings of superhero media, the effective use of superhero-based therapeutic interventions, and the relevance of drama therapy processes in these interventions, it is concluded that drama therapy could be an appropriate approach for therapeutic work with queer emerging adults.

Creative Commons License

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

Recommended Citation

Dotan, Lital, "Taking Off the Mask; Identity Development with Queer Emerging Adults" (2024). Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses. 822.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_theses/822