Date of Award
12-1-2017
Degree Name
Master of Fine Arts
Department
Mass Communication and Media Arts
First Advisor
Montyl, Howard
Abstract
In this paper, I recount my experiences with PTSD and my own initial reluctance to seek treatment. I address similar stigmas associated with sexual assault and PTSD— how they are reinforced by media, and their role in silencing victims. I explore how trauma transforms my academic research and work as a media artist. Finally, I explore how art is a healing process through my partially autobiographical thesis project, “The Things that We Create.” By sharing my journey, I hope to continue the dialogue on structural changes that are necessary to combat stigmas of sexual assault and PTSD (not only exclusive to sexual assault victims), and highlight the art-making process as a fundamental tool in restorative recovery.
Access
This thesis is only available for download to the SIUC community. Current SIUC affiliates may also access this paper off campus by searching Dissertations & Theses @ Southern Illinois University Carbondale from ProQuest. Others should contact the interlibrary loan department of your local library or contact ProQuest's Dissertation Express service.