TIOSM: Psychological Benefits of Theatre Education
TIOSM: Psychological Benefits of Theatre Education
TIOSM: Psychological Benefits of Theatre Education
By Rylee Vogel
For Theatre in Our School’s Month, we have explored the different elements of theatre
education and the importance of theatre education advocacy. This week, we are focusing
on the psychological and mental benefits of theatre education on students.
Fostering Emotional Intelligence and Prosocial Behavior
Studies on theatre education show that students involved in the arts develop positive
problem-solving skills, emotional intellect, and prosocial behaviors. Theatre provides
students with valuable coping strategies and teaches them how to to positively
communicate and resolve conflicts with their peers. These skills are important for
individual development, and theatre plays a significant role in fostering them.
Additionally, theatre increases student’s ability to consider different perspectives,
promoting collaborative skills and trust by working through cognitive dissonance in class.
These experiences provide positive skills that are used throughout life.
Enhancing Academic Performance and Critical Thinking
Applied drama and theatre has been shown to positively impact students’ roles in society, provided a deep understanding of economics and equity, and improve critical thinking and trust within the classroom. Studies indicate students who participate in theatre are less likely to drop out and achieve higher test scores than their peers.
Develops Identity and Place in the World
Through storytelling and playmaking, studies show theatre helps students develop a sense of identity and self-concept. This development occurs when students engage in
collaborative work, rely on others, and practice quick decision-making skills (the
foundation of improv and scene work). Creating an identity and positive concept of self is a critical part of youth development, and theatre education provide these skills they will
carry throughout their life.
Theatre education is a critical part of psychological development. It helps build emotional intelligence and promotes prosocial behavior by teaching different coping and communication skills. Theatre benefits academic performance and promotes critical thinking by giving students opportunities to see multiple perspectives and situations.
Finally, it develops a sense of identity and strengthens self-concept by allowing students to practice decision making skills and fostering communication amongst peers. Theatre education promotes psychological development and builds well-adjusted adults. It is important to continue advocating for Theatre in Our Schools to allow this to continue!
Resources and References
Source: Theatre Counts: How Theatre Education Transforms Students’ Lives:
https://www.aep-arts.org/theatre-counts/
2019 Study Findings on Improvisational Theater and Self-Concept: https://www.artsedsearch.org/study/improvisational-theater-classes-improve-self-concept/
2007 Study Findings on Peer Conflict Resolution Stills Through Drama: https://www.artsedsearch.org/study/enhancing-peer-conflict-resolution-skills-through-drama-an-experimental-study/
2006 Study Findings of Exploring Adolescent Moral Values Through Process Drama: https://www.artsedsearch.org/study/exploring-moral-values-with-young-adolescents-through-process-drama/
2011 Study Findings on Playmaking as a Pedagogy of Change: https://www.artsedsearch.org/study/i-made-myself-playmaking-as-a-pedagogy-of-change-with-urban-youth/
It's Showtime!
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