This article demonstrates the process whereby creative drama is used to develop and enhance both self- and group observation skills, awareness, and insight. It further demonstrates the role of videotape recordings in aiding this development of observing ego. This work emphasizes three distinct phases as necessary in the development of observing ego function: the ritualization and playing out of old and current group themes; the magnification of these for the purpose of clarification; and the repeated reworkings of these themes to make them more psychologically accessible and so more available to be worked through, thereby promoting both individual and group change.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.
References
1.
Barsky, M. and G. Moyenter (1976) "The use of creative drama in a children's group."Int. J. of Group Psychotherapy26: 105-114
2.
. Evans, R. and A. Clifford (1967) "Captured for consideration."Child Care, Health and Development2: 129-137
3.
. Freud, A. (1958) The Ego and the Mechamsms of DefenseNew York: International Universities Press.
4.
Freud, S. (1968) "Group psychology and the analysis of the ego," pp. 67-143 in S. Freud, Standard Edition (Vol. 18). London: Hogarth.
5.
Goldfried, M.D. and R. Levy (1970) "The use of television videotape to enhance the therapeutic value of psychodrama," in M.M. Berger (ed.) Videotape Technique in Psychiatric Training and Treatment.New York: Bruner/Mazel.
6.
Irwin, E.C., P. Levy, and M. Shapiro (1972) "Assessment of drama therapy m a child guidance clinic."Group Psychotherapy and Psychodrama25: 105-116.
7.
Marvitt, R.C., J. Lind, and D.G. McLaughlin (1974) "Use of videotape to induce attitude change in delinquent adolescents."Amer. J. of Psychiatry131, 9: 996-999
8.
. Mitscherlich, A. (1978) "Group psychology and the analysis of the ego—a lifetime later."Psychoanalysis Q.47: 1-23
9.
. Moreno, J.L. (1969) "The Viennese origins of the encounter movement: paving the way for existentialism."Group Psychotherapy and Psychodrama22: 7-16
10.
. Sanborn, D.E., H.F. Pyke, and C.J. Sanborn (1975) "Videotape playback and psychotherapy: a review."Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice12: 179-186
11.
. Schiffer, M. (1977) "Activity interview group psychotherapy: theory, principles and practice."Int. J. of Group Psychotherapy27: 377-388.
