Creativity, Theology, and Posttraumatic Growth: The Sacred Impulse of Play and Transformation out of Tragedy
Ebook
The relationship between creativity, Christian theology, and experiences of growth after trauma may open pathways towards transformation for individuals and communities. An integrated theory based upon the psychological theories of D. W. Winnicott, the pneumatology of Jurgen Moltmann, and the current science of trauma and creativity is proposed to investigate how playful, creative expression with the world may foster experiences of positive psychological change. This theory suggests that creative action, rooted in a rediscovery of play, might allow for experiences of reorganization and growth after traumatic upheaval. Stewarding creative action after trauma is one way in which the afflicted can collaborate with the Holy Spirit, even in the midst of tragic pain, to honor our wholeness and dignity as beings made in the image of God. Accessing our created, God-given purpose and identity, from a perspective of playful co-creation, is offered as a path to psychological healing and transformation. This approach may have wide-ranging implications for faith-based clinicians, the church, and communities walking through traumatic, desert-like landscapes of the heart.
“Given the pervasive levels of trauma adversity today, it is no
wonder that people have reached the ends of themselves and
increasingly seek therapy and spirituality. . . . With
intellect and grace, Risser not only reminds his reader of the
importance of play and creativity in our theology but offers a path
forward for Christian psychologists to engage diverse clients
through creativity, play, and spirituality to not only heal but
thrive.”
—Pamela King, Fuller Theological Seminary
“Risser brings together D. W. Winnicott’s developmental theory of
creativity and play with theological reflections on the image of
God to offer his own creative, playful contribution on the role of
play and creativity in responding to trauma in growth-enhancing
ways. Clinicians interested in spirituality/religion will
appreciate both his theological reflections as well as his
practical suggestions for responding creatively to trauma.”
—Stephen Parker, Regent University, emeritus
“In Creativity, Theology, and Posttraumatic Growth, Dustin
Risser invites the reader to pursue play and joy, even in the
shadows of trauma. His psychological and theological analysis of
attuned relationships, playful creativity, and posttraumatic
healing offers a model to bring growth to trauma survivors through
acts of making and creative expression. His metaphor of the desert
rose is an engaging reminder of this possibility of beauty out of
adversity.”
—Cynthia B. Eriksson, Fuller Theological Seminary
“Risser offers a path to transformation and life through the medium
and cultivation of creativity. He does so by exploring creativity
through the integration of psychology and theology. Not often does
one see psychologists such as Winnicott and theologians such as
Moltmann put into dialogue, but Riser does so in an engaging and
playful manner. This book will stimulate the creative imaginations
of psychologists and theologians working at the intersection of
trauma and growth.”
—Brad D. Strawn, Fuller Theological Seminary
“Risser’s examination of the vital role that creativity plays in
posttraumatic growth not only provides a clear overview of the
field of research on this topic but also a blueprint for how
individuals, churches, and counselors can make play a greater
aspect of the healing process.”
—David T. Lamb, Missio Seminary
- Title: Creativity, Theology, and Posttraumatic Growth: The Sacred Impulse of Play and Transformation out of Tragedy
- Author: Dustin S. Risser
- Publisher: Pickwick Publications
- Print Publication Date: 2022
- Logos Release Date: 2023
- Language: English
- Resources: 1
- Format: Digital › Ebook
- ISBNs: 9781666799088, 9781666799071, 9781666738414, 1666799076, 1666738417, 1666799084
- Resource ID: LLS:9781666799088
- Resource Type: Monograph
- Metadata Last Updated: 2023-02-04T11:01:17Z
Dustin S. Risser is passionate about the conversation between psychology and Christian faith, with a specialized interest concerning the relationship between creativity, culture, and the work of the Holy Spirit. He currently serves as an affiliate assistant professor of psychology at Fuller Theological Seminary. Music, surfing, nature, and his Boston terrier, Tobias, are a few sources of day-to-day shalom.