Alternative Title

Strengths-based model used with youth in hip hop therapy

Publication Date

2016

Document Type

Masters Thesis

Study Type

Qualitative

Department

School for Social Work

Keywords

Hip hop-Therapeutic use, Problem youth-Mental health services, Beats Rhymes and Life Inc., Hip hop therapy, Strengths-based, Collaborative learning

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine how the Academy program at Beats, Rhymes, & Life, Inc. (BRL) utilizes a strength-based therapeutic approach. This study focused on identifying facets of a strength-based model utilized by the Academy, and exploring the effect of a strengths-based approach on participants. Using semi-structured interviews with seven current and past Academy members, the study found that the strengths-based approach positively impacted all participants in three distinct ways: (1) Valuing multiple forms of knowledge in a non-hierarchical manner, which included processes related to collaboration, self-directed learning, and use of a multicultural perspective, (2) Honoring client and communities as experts on themselves and capable of healing themselves , which included participants identifying healing processes amongst their community and the impact of healing through art and expression, and (3) Reframing the pathological “at risk” model to a strength-based model of resilience, which included identifying processes related to highlighting personal strengths, reframing youth form “at-risk” to “at-promise” and increasing perceived self-esteem and confidence. Implications for social practice highlight the benefits that a strength-based approach provides for the Academy and provides a template for best practice in therapeutic group based agency work.

Language

English

Comments

iv, 77 pages. M.S.W., Smith College School for Social Work, Northampton, Ma., 2016. Includes bibliographical references (pages 67-71)

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