Date of Award
5-19-2007
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (MALS)
Department
Liberal Studies
First Advisor
Anne Turner
Second Advisor
William Long
Abstract
Development of musical and dramatic arts skills strengthens psychological wellness within the at-risk population. The ability of the arts curriculum to promote psychological wellness is documented repeatedly in the premier research surveyed by two overarching compendia, Champions of Change and Critical Links. It is postulated that music and drama, specifically, promote positive behavioral change by enhancing or altering neurological pathways. Twelve developmental issues are examined in two broad categories: concepts of self and socialization. Each developmental issue is analyzed according to the aforementioned premier research. Musical and dramatic therapeutic responses, reflecting the conclusions reached by numerous researchers, are suggested for each targeted issue. A summary of the neurological support for these therapeutic responses concludes both the "concepts of self' and "socialization" sections. Contemporary research supports the assertion that arts education makes a difference. Future research focused on these neurological hypotheses is recommended, in addition to the suggestions from the sources cited.
Recommended Citation
D' Ambrosio, Christy, "The Effects of the Arts Curriculum on the At-Risk Student Population: An Examination of Music and Drama with Regard to Specific Risk Factors" (2007). MALS Final Projects, 1995-2019. 46.
https://creativematter.skidmore.edu/mals_stu_schol/46