DRAMATHERAPY

Dramatherapy and its Movement away from its Shamanistic Roots



Dramatherapy and its Movement away from its Shamanistic Roots

Introduction

Objectives

The main premise of this paper is to look at the changing views of dramatherapy. Dramatherapy would be viewed in context of its initial roots inherent in ritualistic and other shamanistic practices. As such the doctrine would be traced from its early roots, through to Greek periods were drama was viewed as more than an entertainment portal. As such, the proposed cathartic values of drama (articulated by Aristotle) would be iterated. Further its close knitted association with the study of psychology would be dissected. The next motive of the paper would be to highlight the cultural appropriation that took place in the field of dramatherapy in the 1970's and onwards. From obscurity, the therapeutic process gained widespread acknowledgement with regards to its healing prowess on the mentally affected. This widespread inclination towards the beneficial features of the therapy extended it into the realms of evidence based practice and placed it in similar context to psychotherapy etc. Although behavioural and cognitive psychologists still persist in disregarding the credibility's of the practice. Scholar views of renowned drama therapists including Phil Jones, Grainger and Emy Jennings would be articulated. These views would re-iterate the importance of drama based therapies and its requirement in the society for members that are mentally stricken with thought disorders. Furthermore, its importance to enhance the creativities of the elderly would be also highlighted.

The aim to provide such noteworthy references is to communicate the societal importance of the therapeutic process. The shift of dramatherapy into evidence based practise has led to a widespread acceptance of the therapies benefits for different types of people in communities. Its widespread acknowledgement and authentication resoundingly attest to its coherence in today's society. As such the therapeutic practice is now a division of psychology that can be used aptly to alleviate the concerns of a wide array of people in need of emotional release.

Dramatherapy

Dramatherapy is a form of Expressive therapy that aims to promote mental health and assist personal growth. It uses theatre and drama techniques with intentions to apply their healing aspects. The technique uses action methods including drama games, theatrical performance, improvisations, role playing, puppetry and masks. These action techniques are aimed to aid behaviour modification, personal growth, insight, learning, imagination and creativity. As such this form of therapeutic practise is witnessed in mental health facilities and hospitals. Schools, businesses and prisons are also open to use its benefits for personal growth. Dramatherapy has many forms and can be applicable to alleviate concerns of groups, families, couples and individuals (Malchiodi, 2005).

A diverse profession, dramatherapy, has to ensure maintenance of professional standards. The British association of dramatherapists (BADTH) is the professional body that upholds these professional standards. BADTH's main objectives are to ensure:

Promotion of the profession;

Function as a representational body for professionals practise in the UK;

Promotion, maintenance, improvement and advancement of the profession's benefits to the public;

Sponsor of the professionals, with regards to establishment and ...