THE DEVELOPMENT OF POSITIVE EMOTIONS IN ADOLESCENTS THROUGH ART THERAPY ACTIVITIES

Abstract

The development of positive emotions in adolescents is a key factor in promoting mental well-being and appropriate social behavior. Art therapy provides a creative and expressive process that enables adolescents to safely express their feelings and explore their inner selves. This study aims to examine the effects of art therapy on enhancing positive emotions among adolescents. It is based on Fredrickson’s (2001) Broaden-and-Build Theory of Positive Emotions, which emphasizes how positive emotions can broaden thought-action repertoires and build personal resources. The art therapy activities include drawing, coloring, and free-form artistic creation. Preliminary findings show that art therapy significantly reduces stress, increases self-satisfaction, and enhances adolescents’ sense of self-worth. Therefore, art therapy is considered an effective method for emotional development in today's youth.