Creative writing as a tool for identity expression and exploration

Brandilyn Worrell

Description

In this session, an undergraduate writing center employee will build connections between research done on creative writing in multiple areas and its ability to become a tool for identity expression and exploration. Through this research and ongoing sessions with students, we will explore the use of creative writing to facilitate vulnerability which leads to the examination and expression of personal identity and development (Brown, 2010).

Creative writing is shown to encourage growth in a wide range of writers from primary school to medical school, equipping these individuals with the tools to cut through the hesitations many carry when approaching identity and self-expression, as well as creating a space for connections with other writers. Creative writing also has the potential to draw in individuals who might otherwise not utilize writing, and therefore the writing center, as resource and an area for personal growth. Virginia Cowen, Diane Kaufman, and Lisa Schoenherr conducted a study on the beneficial effects of medical students participating in creative writing and found that it has the potential to positively impact a variety of areas in their education including preventing burnout, revealing biases, and addressing conflict within the program (316).

Creative writing is an underused tool to facilitate reflection and connection. Incorporating programs into writing centers that encourage creative writing will promote the use of these centers and the growth of students from every area of study.

 
Apr 6th, 10:00 AM Apr 6th, 11:00 AM

Creative writing as a tool for identity expression and exploration

M2320

In this session, an undergraduate writing center employee will build connections between research done on creative writing in multiple areas and its ability to become a tool for identity expression and exploration. Through this research and ongoing sessions with students, we will explore the use of creative writing to facilitate vulnerability which leads to the examination and expression of personal identity and development (Brown, 2010).

Creative writing is shown to encourage growth in a wide range of writers from primary school to medical school, equipping these individuals with the tools to cut through the hesitations many carry when approaching identity and self-expression, as well as creating a space for connections with other writers. Creative writing also has the potential to draw in individuals who might otherwise not utilize writing, and therefore the writing center, as resource and an area for personal growth. Virginia Cowen, Diane Kaufman, and Lisa Schoenherr conducted a study on the beneficial effects of medical students participating in creative writing and found that it has the potential to positively impact a variety of areas in their education including preventing burnout, revealing biases, and addressing conflict within the program (316).

Creative writing is an underused tool to facilitate reflection and connection. Incorporating programs into writing centers that encourage creative writing will promote the use of these centers and the growth of students from every area of study.