Date of Award
1977
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Art in Art Therapy
Department
Art
Abstract
This thesis, "Self-Portrait as a Measure of Self-Perception" by Susan LaMantia O'Connor, explores how self-portraiture can serve as a therapeutic tool for understanding self-perception. Conducted with police officers as subjects, the study employs an art therapy exercise involving three self-portraits: one of the self, one with the primary family, and one with a significant individual. Each drawing provides insight into how participants perceive themselves, their relationships, and their emotions. The exercise allows for a departure from traditional verbal assessments, aiming to reveal deeper psychological insights through visual expression. Key elements analyzed include figure stance, line quality, motion, color, and detail, with interpretations offering clues about self-esteem, family dynamics, and personal struggles. O'Connor compares her technique to other psychological drawing tests, noting its unique focus on personal relationships and self-identity. This study underscores the potential of art therapy in uncovering unconscious self-concepts, providing an alternative avenue for self-reflection and mental health assessment through creative expression.
Recommended Citation
O'Connor, Susan LaMantia, "Self-Portrait as a Measure of Self Perception" (1977). Theses. 1152.
https://digitalcommons.lindenwood.edu/theses/1152
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.