The Impact of Psychodrama and Role Playing in the Correctional Environment.

Anger Management

April 2021

Full Citation

Schramski, T., & Harvey, D. (1983). The Impact of Psychodrama and Role Playing in the Correctional Environment. International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology, 27(3), 243–254. https://doi.org/10.1177/0306624X8302700307

Abstract

Evaluates the rehabilitative efforts of action therapists with residents of correctional institutions. Experimental and quasi-experimental studies of unrehearsed psychodrama (PD) in this setting over the past 50 yrs have yielded positive, but not significant, results. The use of PD affected academic achievement, social skills, recidivism, and, in one case, personality change. Case studies and descriptive evaluations indicate that action methods can facilitate institutional as well as postinstitutional adjustment. A recent controlled study with adult male prisoners compared psychodrama, anger therapy, values clarification, decision-making, and minimal treatment (control) groups in 8 weekly sessions. Results show all treatments superior to control, and psychodrama as the most powerful overall in improving resident attitudes. More well-designed and adequately reported studies are needed so that action therapists can systematically evaluate their treatment efforts while providing services. Recommendations for researchers and practitioners working in a correctional setting are included. (32 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)