An Iranian Woman’s Exploration of Her Sexuality Through Art Therapy

Abstract

Sexuality is negotiated through intimate and familial relationships within larger systems of culture and society. In contemporary Iran, religion and cultural upbringing exert a large influence on women’s sexual development. This article presents a case study of a young adult, single woman in Iran who participated in online, client-centered art therapy to explore her sexual identity in a safe space. Social role and sexual double standards emerged in the case, along with relief from sexual repression and the provision of a safe space that empowered her to discuss a taboo subject within the norms of her culture and religious family structure. Through her artmaking process and related discussions, she was able to gain understanding of healthy sexuality and identity, and lifestyle choices and constraints within a culturally sensitive relationship.

Keywords:

• Art therapy
• sexuality
• sex education
• religion
• Iran

Acknowledgments

I would like to express gratitude to my professor Ikuko Acosta, PhD, ATR-BC, who supported me throughout this journey with no hesitation, and Christina Grosso, LCAT, ATR-BC, who guided me through the thesis writing process. This article could not have come into being without the brilliant support and mentorship of Lynn Kapitan, PhD, HLM, ATR-BC, whose guidance was instrumental.

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Shirin Mazdeyasna

Shirin Mazdeyasna, MA in Art Therapy from New York University, LCAT-LP, is a trauma therapist at REACH Center of MHACG, Hudson, NY.