From Angst to Assurance: Why Young Women Need Creative Community
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Date
2023
Authors
O'Donnell, Hailey
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
This thesis examines the healing and motivating influence of creative community through the lens of creative young women. My research elucidates mechanisms of creativity deterrence facing young women today and offers an intervention. Through thorough literature review, I have identified four intervention elements evidenced to aid confidence and creative development: (1) therapeutic creative practice; (2) mutual recovery; (3) peer support and mentorship; (4) all-woman spaces. Combining these factors (and existing research on Creative Youth Development [CYD]), I propose a novel program for the encouragement of young women’s creative writing and connection with one another. Additionally, I employ personal narrative throughout my inquiry to reflect a common young woman’s creative arc indicated by my research. My findings illuminate the role of creative community in girls’ collective empowerment, as well as both artistic and personal fulfillment.
Description
78 pages
Keywords
Creativity, Peer Mentorship, Young Women, Creative Youth Development, Community