Chapter One: An Art Therapy Intervention on Identity Development through the Lens of the Adoptee: A Qualitative Arts-based Approach

The goal of this pilot research explored the complex meaning of international adoptees’ efforts to identify the missing pieces of their journeys through an art therapy intervention—“Chapter One.” The study sought to understand the impact of the unknown on the identity formation of international adoptees. Holding creative space to explore a time when choice was made for us, and we did not have words to describe our feelings, was powerful. The art created is a physical picture book story of our beginning. The art gives our beginning a home, something to look at and understand how these first moments really shape who we become. I am an international adoptee and invited three international adoptees to explore their early years and reflect on the art created through a structured interview. The art was examined from an art therapy perspective, using Hinz’ expressive therapies continuum, as a basis for discussion. Interviews were transcribed, analyzed, and coded using thematic analysis. The major themes that emerged from the art therapy directive related to identity development: assumptions, privilege, trauma, independence and resilience, grief and loss, and fantasy versus reality. All themes are relatable and have informed my current evidence-based practice.