The Value of Embodiment:
The Psychotherapeutic Role of Monster Image Representation in Storytelling
Yayun Zheng
We all have “monsters” inside of us - those unnamable anxieties, fears, or traumas that are invisible but heavy,
affecting our emotions and behaviors. In this dissertation, I propose Monsterization Narrative as an innovative approach
to help individuals externalize and manage their emotions by visualizing abstract psychological issues as observable and
interactive monsters.
Through a combination of Narrative Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I explore how monster imagery plays a
role in history, psychology, and modern art. From the symbols of fear in ancient myths to psychological metaphors in
contemporary games and comics, monsters are not only the embodiment of fear, but also a tool for self-exploration. The
paper also introduces the concept of de-monsterization, which explores how these “monsters” can be redefined through
creativity and transformed into manageable and even beneficial beings.
This research not only offers new artistic interventions for psychotherapy, but also provides a practical framework for
creators and ordinary people to manage their emotions. If you've ever suffered from anxiety, perhaps “Talking to
Monsters” is just the antidote you need.
Cover of the book
The book is a double side book, picture showing the covers on both side. The book can be open from both sides.
The Side of the thesis
I called this side of the book “Embodied fears: a visual essay on monsters, and self”, open on the right side.
The side of the storytelling
The back of the book. I called this side of the book “Those time letting my mind wander”. Open on the right side as well. Telling the story I fight and escaped from my passed stress.
Thesis preview
Combines cognitive behavioral therapy from psychology to explore the value of art healing in storytelling, negative emotion awareness and change
Storytelling preview
Through an illustrated story, it tells the story of how I faced the pressures of being tied to school and age. The process of escaping from the “expectations” of others by turning them into monsters. And how I faced the pressure and found my way out.
Life takes on new colors
A time to climb a mountain of my own.
Have a try for yourself
A small taste of how participants can go about creating their own stories.