Abstract

This study examines and compares two emerging areas in the field of mental health: positive psychology and drama therapy. The positive psychology movement emerged out of the desire to balance research in the mental health field to include the study of human strength and positive functioning along with the study of mental illness, and to apply this knowledge in clinical practice. The creative processes used in drama therapy, which are inspired by theatrical tradition, can effectively promote positive mental health, as they facilitate the potential for skill-building and deeper personal discovery within the safety of a therapeutic environment. Supporters of positive psychology are also working towards building a strong body of research focusing on human strengths and potential. Research collaborations with positive psychologists could benefit drama therapy as a profession, by communicating this modality's therapeutic effectiveness to a wider community