How arts-based methods are used to support the resilience and well-being of young people: a review of the literature

This chapter explores research literature that has sought to ascertain how arts-based methods have been used to support the development of resilience and well-being in adolescents. The initial gathering of the literature unfolded from the four key search terms of: resilience, well-being, arts-based, and adolescents. In conceptualising this chapter, the authors explored their individual and collective engagement regarding the challenges which impact young people's capacity to cultivate resilience and well-being. It was found that the arts and/or arts-based approaches to working with young people, particularly in marginalised communities, make a difference to their resilience and well-being. In addition, it takes a community to support young people with issues they face that are often out of their control. Therefore, the use of language needs to be considered as it can powerfully influence the ways in which young people feel empowered or alternatively dis-empowered, which can either mobilise or inhibit change