In my master's thesis, I research the first-person narrative of people about psychosocial distress using an art product, that people have created themselves as expression and representation of their distress. In the theoretical part, I present the topic of psychosocial distress, mainly through contextual and systemic understanding. I present psychosocial distress as a phenomenon that occurs, shapes, and frames within a social context. Today, we are witnessing the emergence of new uncertainties and risks. Social phenomena such as capitalistic and individualistic orientation and the emergence of the coronavirus are current social processes that are present today. In parallel with these social processes, there is an increase in psychosocial distress among people. In my master's thesis, I focus mainly on the younger generation, especially on young people who are in life stage of emerging adulthood. In theory, I also touch upon on topic of artistic creation, as a supportive activity in dealing with psychosocial distress. In doing so, I proceed mainly from the knowledge of art therapy.
In my research I used a qualitative research approach and arts based research. In my research, I was interested in people’s stories about psychosocial distress, the contribution of artistic creation in dealing with psychosocial distress, and the usefulness of an art product in conversation. The main insights I have gained are that young people face a variety of hardships and challenges, which are mainly the result of uncertain or uninspiring conditions in their life system. I realized that a shift from school- and work- centeredness to more holistic approach and life orientation is needed. I also realized that artistic creation has important personal meaning, for the people I conducted conversations with, as it offers them joy and a channel to express themselves. In the conversation, the art product proved to be a useful tool for opening, getting to know and deepening the topic of a person's story about psychosocial distress and in illuminating personal meanings.
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