Psychodrama with Children: A Theoretical Evaluation and Principles of Practice

Abstract

This article provides a comprehensive examination of psychodrama, a method developed by Jacob Levy Moreno, as it is adapted and applied to understand the inner worlds of children and provide them with therapeutic support. The abstract nature of traditional talk therapies does not always align with the developmental characteristics and expressive modalities of children, for whom play and action are the most fundamental tools for communication and learning. It details how the essential elements of psychodrama, the protagonist, director, auxiliary ego, stage, and group are differentiated and adapted when working with children. The application of core techniques such as role reversal, doubling, and mirroring using toys, puppets, and symbolic materials is described with concrete examples. The three essential phases of a child psychodrama session warm-up, action, and sharing are analyzed with consideration for the child’s developmental needs. Furthermore, the article discusses the method’s application for various childhood issues like trauma, anxiety, social skill deficits, and family conflicts, while also exploring its strengths and the potential challenges encountered during practice. Finally, it offers recommendations for practitioners, researchers, and educators, outlining a perspective aimed at increasing the prevalence and efficacy of child psychodrama.