Group Drama Therapy
Group Drama Therapy
Drama therapy is an integrative intervention influenced by psychoanalysis, humanistic psychology, behavioral therapy, play therapy, theater, and dramatic ritual (Leeder, A. & Wimmer, C. 2006)[1]. The goals of drama therapy include increasing insight, self efficacy, a sense of mastery, spontaneity, authenticity, and the ability to develop more positive life stories (Leeder, A. & Wimmer, C. 2006)[1]. This is done through "the use of dramatic structures, improvisational games, sound and movement exercises, writing, and performance" (p. 199, Leeder, A. & Wimmer, C. 2006)[1].
Example
Project Pride is a residential drug and alcohol and co-occuring treatment facility in West Oakland, CA. The organization houses 40 mothers and children from infancy to 8 years of age. They provide services for women re-entering the community from incarceration. One of their programs is Multi-Family Education Group. In this group, drama therapy is used with the facility members, their families, and friends. One exercise that is used is called "Stage Picture." In the Stage Picture exercise, participants freeze in poses that represent the different roles that family members play in an addicted family. Examples of the poses are: heroic, sad, scapegoat, hero, enabler, addict, and dependent. It has been noted by counselors that though the children may not be paying attention during the didactic part of the process, when they play "stage picture" the children rush to participate. One participant noted: "No judging. That's what was really amazing for me, that your drama is your therapy" (p.212, Leeder & Wimmer, 2006)[1] .
