Identity Formation in Adolescents using Assemblage and Found Objects

The purpose of this study was to explore a gap in current research that reveals how art therapy, using assemblage with found objects, empowers adolescents to explore their identity by creating a personal narrative. Identity formation is a critical step in adolescence that involves the development of a coherent sense of self and identity (Erikson, 1968, as cited in Branje et al., 2021). For the adolescent to be successful in this stage, they must synthesize both their personal and social identities (Erikson, 1950, as cited in McLean & Syed, 2014). Using this understanding of adolescent identity, this study utilized a qualitative research design with a narrative, arts-based research approach. In two 90-minute arts-based workshops and interviews, data were collected, and thematic analysis was conducted. The results of the study suggest that art therapy, when combined with a narrative approach, can show efficacy for the exploration of identity formation in adolescents. Key conclusions reached in the study were that assemblage with found objects serve in the exploration and communication of identity, that artmaking creates a non-verbal space for expression, and that the exploration of identity occurs through the communication of both internal and external influence. Additionally, using visual and oral narratives together fosters rich, exploratory, personal narratives that shape identity.