Topic of Inquiry

As of today, I find myself deeply interested in exploring how digital storytelling can promote well-being, particularly in fostering emotional resilience within communities. Digital storytelling is a powerful tool for self-expression, empowerment, and social connection. Since the beginning of human history, storytelling has served as a means of sharing personal experiences, strengthening community bonds, and conveying cultural and spiritual values. Today, technology expands these possibilities, offering new ways for individuals to tell their stories and take ownership of their narratives.

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I’m drawn to this topic because storytelling has long been a way to process emotions and make sense of experiences. Now, digital platforms provide innovative spaces where people can share their stories in ways that encourage resilience and support. Understanding how digital storytelling contributes to well-being—whether through community engagement, therapeutic benefits, or identity formation—aligns with my broader interests in creative expression, health literacy, and advocacy.

At the heart of my dissertation topic of inquiry: How can digital storytelling be used not just for storytelling itself but as a tool to bridge learning gaps, foster empathy, and empower individuals to improve their health literacy? My interest in this stems from a longstanding concern: many people struggle to understand their health, making it difficult to make informed decisions about their care or advocate for loved ones. Health literacy remains a complex and evolving challenge in the U.S. I’ve witnessed how patients often accept medical decisions without questioning their clinicians—sometimes because they don’t feel comfortable speaking up. I’ve also seen how medical professionals sometimes talk "at" patients rather than genuinely listening to them.

Through my research, I hope to contribute new insights to the field of health education. By examining how digital storytelling intersects with social determinants of health, I aim to encourage students and clinicians to consider more holistic, patient-centered approaches to care.

Reflecting on my topic, I realize that while it is broad, it still needs further refinement. The intersection of digital storytelling and well-being covers a vast landscape, so narrowing my focus—perhaps to a specific population (such as individuals with a particular chronic illness or Indigenous communities) or a specific platform (like social media, interactive storytelling, or video blogs)—will be crucial. Ensuring that my research question is both impactful and feasible is a key next step in shaping the direction of my dissertation.

One thing I’ve come to accept, both in my academic journey and professional life, is that I can’t solve all the world’s problems. I’m not trying to be a rescuer—I simply want to contribute a small but meaningful piece to the health communication puzzle. Well-being is profoundly personal and subjective, and my goal is to explore how digital storytelling can help people navigate their health in a way that empowers them.