ABSTRACT
In this part, we are offered the underpinning information that has informed the author’s approach to her work with this population. We learn about the different forms of drama, the basic concepts of Kohut’s self-development theory and Moreno’s inspiration.
Drama, in all its forms, by its very nature, can generate understanding, empathy and deep insights. We are familiarized with the basic elements of Theatre, Creative Dramatics, Drama Therapy, and Psychodrama and how to apply and interlace them into work with this population. This is followed by four concepts that are basic to Heinz Kohut’s self-theory: empathy, twinship, mirroring and grandiosity which form the psychological theoretical basis for the author’s approach and method. Each concept is clearly explained with illustrative vignettes from the process.
Without Moreno’s immense contribution to group psychotherapy, the resulting creativity, spontaneity and connection in this group process would not have been possible. The author shares her experience of following Moreno’s attitude towards experiential interactive group work.
