In the theoretical part of the paper I have presented findings that exist in the field of role theory, as well as psychodrama techniques, and researched the elements that link psychodrama and drama therapy as one of the branches of arts therapies. The research is focused on the potential of the main psychodrama technique, i.e. role playing, which in the field of drama therapy and other fields of psychosocial support still desires to be thoroughly examined and used.
In the empirical part I have, through a process of personal participation, used a qualitative study to analyse a case of one adult individual. The individual has joined a group process of psychodrama, with a purpose of personal development and possible changes in his manners of expression and communication. I have observed his experience of playing different roles and changes he became aware of, and recorded what meaning he attributed to his participation in the process.
I have come to the realisation that role analysis was important for recognising behavioural, thought and emotional patterns because the user may himself or herself systematically observe his or her own development through a role. The user became aware of the behavioural, thought and emotional patterns present in his life. Through role swapping he became aware of and developed his ability for empathy, and through role playing he came face to face with his defence mechanisms – that helped him widen the spectrum of experiencing and expression which in turn made changes in behaviour, feeling and thinking possible.
The research allows for a rare and in-depth insight into the psychodrama process in real life and as such contributes to the fields of psychodrama, drama therapy and other support practices in which playing and role analysis are used. The findings presented in the paper refer only to the circumstances of this particular research and may not be applied in a general manner to a process taking place in different circumstances.
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