PREPARING PAROLEES FOR ESSENTIAL SOCIAL ROLES

Abstract

Psychodrama can be useful as a method of training for life roles which are necessary for an individual as requisites for his participation in community life. One particular area, where it has been found useful, is in preparing parolees and recently released mental patients to participate in necessary roles and life situations. The parolee from a correctional institution must find and maintain a job as a necessary condition of his release, whether he finds it unpleasant or not. The mental patient on release if he is to function must be equipped in some minimal way to operate in everyday situations. Although their fear and anxiety may be rooted in more complex psychological dynamics, it is still absolutely necessary that these people be prepared to act effectively in key areas of social life. Psychodrama and role playing can often cut through the complexity of the personality problem and help prepare individuals for these situations.