In Mary Shelley’s 1818 ‘Frankenstein’ story, Dr Vincent Frankenstein’s creation did not have a name, the public referred to The Creation as “The Monster”. The Creation craved community, but was rejected and criticised for his existence. Leading him to internalise his painful experience, and then respond to the world by projecting his pain onto others.
The modern day Frankenstein is society, creating conditions that lead to ill mental health and destructive behaviours. With those who grow up in the ghetto being at greater risk.
WHAT?
Ghetto Frankenstein is an emotional literacy group programme that uses street/youth culture to engage, educate and develop young people emotionally.
“I was benevolent and good, misery made me a fiend. Make me happy, and I shall again be virtuous.”
– The Creation
WHY?
50% of adult mental illness starts from before the age of 14, on average 10 years will pass before a young person receives any help, lack of engagement or understanding of therapy leads to therapy ending prematurely. Costing the UK £41.8 million (NMHDU report) in mental health bills, benefits, prison, loss of productivity at work and more.
There’s a lack of access to mental health support and emotional health education as a method of prevention, in the form that speaks to youth/street culture.
There’s a lack of familiarity with the therapeutic world. An extra layer is needed to create a space, to adjust to the intimacy of the setting, connect with their emotions, understand how pain drives their behaviours and feel safe enough to be vulnerable.
For those who find self exploration frightening, the GF creative approach provides a space for participants to explore their personal experiences via metaphor.
“On average 10 years will pass between a young a person first becoming unwell and when they first get help.”
Trauma and low emotional literacy levels lead to lower attainment in school, and an increased chance of exclusion, joining gangs, participation in risky behaviours, substance abuse, prison and dysfunctional relationships. GF saves society greatly, in both sterling and emotional currency.
Ghetto Frankenstein programmes cover:
Definition of mental health
Definition of emotional literacy
Uniqueness and mis-marketing of emotions
Vulnerability
Shame
Happiness
Aggression
Resilience
Empathy
Self regulation
Attachment
HOW?
(Group) Programme delivery style is in the form of debate, quizzes, presentations and conversation, using hip hop, art and literature. A diverse approach to delivery, to adhere to a variety of learning needs and preferences.
The program will be delivered to the whole group, the last session will be delivered to selected individuals, as part of the legacy program, to ensure sustainability.
