| Abstract [eng] |
Psychosocial health in this study is defined as an individual’s ability to maintain a functional relationship with oneself and others, encompassing emotional regulation, social engagement, autonomy, and the development of meaningful interpersonal relationships. The study focuses on individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders, characterized by disturbances in perception of reality, thinking, and emotional responsiveness, which significantly affect interpersonal relationships, autonomy, and everyday functioning. Individuals living in close community settings frequently experience social exclusion, stigmatization, and fragmented relationships, alongside increased levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. In such contexts, interventions aimed at restoring relationships with oneself and others, strengthening autonomy, and fostering group connectedness are particularly important. Drama therapy, through action-based methods, role enactment, and symbolic expression, creates a safe and structured group environment for the expression, reflection, and transformation of personal experiences. Research aim: To determine the impact of drama therapy on the psychosocial health of individuals living in a close-knit community. Objectives: 1. To review the theoretical aspects of psychosocial health, community living, and drama therapy. 2. To assess changes in depression, anxiety, and stress before and after the application of drama therapy. 3. To explore participants’ experiences and emotional processes within group drama therapy. Methods: A mixed-methods research design was applied, combining quantitative and qualitative research methods. Quantitative data were collected using the DASS-21 scale before and after the drama therapy program. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and paired-sample tests. Qualitative data were collected during reflection sessions and analysed following the principles of thematic analysis, identifying recurring experiences and their underlying meaning structures. The study involved 12 adult participants diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorders and living in a close-knit community setting. All participants attended regular group drama therapy sessions conducted over a defined period (October–December 2025). The results demonstrated a decrease in indicators of depression, anxiety, and stress following drama therapy. Qualitative analysis revealed subjective changes in participants’ psychosocial health: initial experiences of caution, distrust, and social distance gradually transformed into greater openness, emotional engagement, and stronger connections with other group members. The drama therapy process evolved from individual participation toward collaborative and creative group engagement, accompanied by an increased sense of belonging, mutual support, and psychological safety. Conclusions. The findings suggest that drama therapy in a close community setting may contribute to the strengthening of psychosocial health. Following the therapeutic process, decreases in depression and stress indicators were observed, while the increase in anxiety may be associated with heightened emotional awareness, sensitivity, and deeper reflection on internal experiences. |
