Bibliotherapy and YA literature

Abstract

Books can be used as powerful tools for teens to explore their worlds, make sense of what is going on around them, participate in self-reflection, and be exposed to new cultures, beliefs, and perspectives. This article discusses the many ways YA literature can be used to provide teens with an opportunity to identify and work through their emotions, through the practice of bibliotherapy. In this article, you will find a brief definition of what bibliotherapy is, how the practice can be used in libraries and with teen patrons, and a list of teen fiction materials paired with various mental health disorders many teens face.