THE USE OF PSYCHODRAMA AND ROLE-PLAYING IN IMPROVING THE INTERPERSONAL SKILLS OF ATTORNEYS

Abstract

A popular view of the lawyer is as an advocate, one who represents a client in a civil or criminal proceeding in a courtroom. This is the picture of the lawyer one gets from reading "Perry Mason" stories, or watching the attorneys in such TV shows as "Day in Court" or "The Verdict is Yours." Viewed in this light, the attorney is seen as one engaged in conflict. But this is a false picture; the typical lawyer spends much, if not most, of his time in his office helping to prevent conflict and resolve conflict. He helps to produce cooperation among different interests, and to prevent future disagreements, by working with his client and others in the formulation of contracts, wills, leases, laws and regulations. He helps to settle existing disputes amicably, thus avoiding the conflict found in strikes, divorces,
proxy fights and litigation. In performing these functions, the lawyer serves a highly important social purpose: the prevention and reduction of wasteful and damaging conflict among individuals and groups.