| The purpose of this project was to propose an identity development curriculum entitled Building Identity Through Expressive Arts (BITEA) for students of color. BITEA uses Jean S. Phinney's ethnic identity development model as a theoretical framework, while utilizing Person-Centered Expressive Arts Therapy (PCEAT) to support the development of healthy ethnic-racial identities (ERI) for at-risk freshmen. The importance of identity development for students of color during adolescence is discussed and examined through existing research. A review of the literature provides support for the necessity and effectiveness of school-based groups, Phinney's ethnic identity development model, and PCEAT. The semester long course is designed to support adolescents in developing their ERIs alongside their peers while gaining insight through the use of PCEAT. With greater self-awareness and improved peer connections, students will be able to navigate their high school experiences empowered to create the futures they have envisioned for themselves. |
