Paths of Happiness: Exploring Joyfulness through Generative AI Image Creation

This thesis argues that Generative AI image creation shows promise as a personalized self-help art therapy tool for individual happiness, particularly in the changing landscape of Society 5.0 and post-pandemic mental wellness. It begins by exploring the interconnectedness of four key areas: art therapy and self-help during the pandemic, Society 5.0 and personalization concepts, Generative AI and image creation, and theoretical insights into happiness. Through auto-ethnographic exploration, the researcher reflected on her personal experience during the pandemic to gain insight into how the Generative AI tool – Midjourney – could facilitate self-help art therapy. Findings suggest that engagement with Generative AI image creation can enhance personal well-being when tailored to individual needs, emphasizing the importance of leveraging technological advancements in mental wellness pursuits. The conclusion proposes the design of a learning flashcard deck, "Create Joy with AI," to aid individuals in customizing their self-help art therapy practice within Society 5.0.