Abstract

The concept of role is central to the field of drama therapy, where it is considered by many to be not only a useful construct to conceptualize an individual's personality, but also a vehicle for psychological change. This study was concerned with exploring the concept of role in drama therapy as it specifically relates to working with families. Using a theoretical methodology to examine the intersection of drama therapy and family therapy, this study made links between Landy's application of Role Theory and Systems Theory, focusing especially on the concept of family roles. Through an integrative review, this study examined the concept of family roles as it is defined and considered in family therapy literature from the foundational models of the mid-twentieth century to the postmodern approaches of today. Based on this review, this research proposed a new taxonomy of family roles, laying the groundwork for a future systemic application of the Role Method. Drama therapy holds much potential for families seeking to uncover, explore and work through the multiple roles that make up their role system. The author argued that despite the fact that family roles in systemic literature are couched in a modern framework that views these roles as rigid and problematic entities, the creation of a systemic Role Method would place them in a postmodern context, integrating old and new systemic frameworks as well as making valuable link between the fields of family therapy and drama therapy.