Abstract

This research paper explores the use of drama therapy, integrated with concepts from Goffman's dramaturgical model, in the treatment of clients with anorexia. The goal of this study is to illustrate the way in which drama therapy is effective in drawing out the true self/backstage of clients with anorexia. Goffman's dramaturgical model, which is a self-representation model, describes self-representation in terms of a front stage and a backstage and that a person will act according to the situation while there are other things taking place backstage, yet are not revealed (as cited in Moghaddam, 1998). Hence, these concepts of a front stage and backstage also parallel the true self and false self of the client with anorexia and the aim of drama therapy in this study is to draw the true self out onto the front stage. Thus, the core section of this paper lies in the third chapter which focuses on the use of drama therapy interventions (with narrative therapy psychodramatic and cognitive behavioral therapy influences), as a therapeutic method in bringing a true self forwards. In accepting the anorexia as a negative force and problem to be dealt with then, I am working with the client towards a re-nurturing and re-feeding of her true self in terms of thinking, feeling and being.

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