The adolescent stage introduces a sense of detachment from one’s own body, as it no longer feels familiar or fully represents the teenager’s unique identity. This can give rise to two contrasting types of reactions.

For some teenagers, the need to make their body “their own”, a more accurate reflection of the spirit inside, by gradually developing their personal style, through hairstyle, clothes, make-up, body piercing etc. Pushed to the extreme, the need to “own their body” can lead to self-destructive behaviour, such as substance abuse or reckless activities (aggressive sexuality, extreme sports).

On the opposite side, an equally common reaction is to distance themselves from their physical identity. This dissociation, in favour of a more intense mental activity, could prove detrimental too, if taken too far. Anorexic eating, for instance, is about reducing the experience of the physical body. 

Similarly, opioids offer an “out of body” experience – while suicidal depression is often seen as a way the escape the almost physical perception of being stuck with no way out. These teens would then grow into dreamy adults, lacking meaningful engagement and grasp of reality. While concentrating merely on contemplation, they would find it difficult to find a real anchor for being interested in the world. (Adam Blanning, MD – “Understanding deeper developmental needs”).

As art therapists, we observe the teenager closely, before and during the art therapy sessions. We observe her/ his character, temperament, abilities and limitations, approach and attitude towards work, the family and educational context etc- to obtain a global understanding. 

Art therapy aims to establish a harmonious Mind-Body equilibrium, which is particularly important during this early development stage.