Teenagers are involved in a continuous process of the formation of self-identity, to garner a sense of individuality for themselves, by figuring out the kind of person they want to be, and the preferences and dislikes they want to have. Therefore, constructing a coherent identity is one of the primary challenges of adolescence, wherein teenagers must synthesize their experiences to form a firm and consolidated identity.
In this regard, art emerges as a powerful tool for self-exploration allowing individuals to not only learn to express themselves in a variety of creative ways, but also allow them to become more flexible and imaginative in their thinking. Research conducted by Kenneth Elpus in 2013 shows that students who participate in the arts are far more likely to do better at school, and avoid suspension. By indulging in artistic expression, students feel that they have a sense of control. This is how artistic expression empowers students and prompts them to a path of positive identity development.
Thus, art allows individuals to take ownership of their identities and experiences. Because art classes generally tend to be more flexible, students learn to work with their own preferences, and therefore are able to transcend the barriers of rigid norms and expectations, by allowing individuals to assert their own choices and exercise their own agency.
Further, art also exists as a platform for collaboration, as it allows individuals to widen their perspectives, work with other students, and therefore foster a sense of community. Thus, through nurturing feelings like belongingness, group projects in art allow students to support one another, in their quest to be the best they can.
Additionally, arts also have a healding tendency to them, as they allow individuals to navigate feelings of hurt and injury. Thus, through exerting a therapeutic effect on individuals, art allows individuals to channel their grief and pain into beauty, by providing them with the drive to better their skill, and create something truly remarkable that would allow one to feel proud of themselves in their quest to forget their hurt.
While it is true that for most students art is not their calling, most students can derive pleasure and joy from art if the subject is taught to them in a wholesome environment. By pushing students to think outside the box, art allows students to push their thinking and become more innovative and risk-taking.
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