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Thesis
Exploring art therapy as an approach to restorative justice: assessing the impact of alternative disciplinary practices on student behavior and growth in K-5 public schools
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
May 2025
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00011099
Abstract
This thesis investigated the potential of art therapy as a transformative disciplinary alternative within elementary education, emphasizing its role in nurturing holistic student development. Traditional consequences, such as detention and suspension, often fail to address students' emotional and behavioral needs, hindering academic and personal growth. In contrast, art therapy offers a restorative approach that encourages self-expression, emotional regulation, and cognitive development. Drawing upon my experience as a Dean of Students, elementary Art Teacher, and fine artist, I observed the limitations of conventional disciplinary practices and the benefits of creating works of art for emotional growth. This study utilizes a qualitative methodology, conducting interviews with administrators in two of Florida's largest public school districts. The focus on qualitative data addresses the limited availability of quantitative research. The Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) Clinical Art Therapy Program is a significant reference. Established in 1979 under the leadership of Janet Bush, it is one of the oldest and most comprehensive school-based art therapy initiatives in the United States. The MDCPS program has demonstrated the effectiveness of integrating art therapy into educational settings, particularly for students with emotional and behavioral challenges. Findings suggest that implementing art therapy as an alternative to traditional disciplinary actions can improve emotional regulation, increase self-awareness, and enhance problem-solving skills among elementary students. Such an approach can develop a more inclusive and emotionally responsive school climate, creating stronger relationships between students and their educational environment. By highlighting the benefits of art therapy in addressing behavioral concerns, this research advocates for a shift toward restorative disciplinary practices in elementary education.
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Details
- Title
- Exploring art therapy as an approach to restorative justice
- Creators
- Anthony Hicks
- Contributors
- Pamela Yau (Advisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Science (M.S.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- iv, 32 pages
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Arts Administration; Arts and Entertainment Enterprise; Drexel University; Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design
- Other Identifier
- 991022061154604721