Psychodramatic experiences with psychotic patients
Cabral, C.A.; Gracía, D.
Acta Psiquiatrica y Psicologica de America Latina 23(1): 44-49
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0001-6896 PMID: 868560 Document Number: 110283
This paper describes an experience carried out at Braulio Moyano Psychiatric Hospital between 1972 and 1976. Two psychodramatic groups were formed. One, according with Moreno's theories; the other, following the doctrines of the "Grupo Experimental Psicodramático Latino-americano". The experience proved to be fruitful. Psychodrama allows, by means of the use of "intermediate objects" the patient to discriminate several entities: reality from dramatization, dramatic spaces from real spaces, inner world from outer world. As soon as the patient is in position to discriminate the images and fantasies that pervade his inner world leading it to chaos, he becomes able to interrelate with other people and to include himself into the real world. Several examples are given of particular cases and the effects of psychodramatic techniques on them, within the limitations of a psychiatric institution. The results show the possibility to lessen psychotic segregation and to improve the possibilities to establish relationships with the outer world.