Det surrealistiska psykodramat
Dionysiska och apolloniska krafters möte
PsychodramaGroup psychotherapySurrealismDionysusPractical knowledgeMythologyNietzschePsykodramaGruppsykoterapiSurrealismDionysosPraktisk kunskapMytologiNietzsche
This essay describes my work as a director in a specialized orientation within psychodrama, surrealistic psychodrama. Using the language and performance techniques of theater and under the guidance of a director, psychodrama creates an improvised narrative or story. The essay describes several dramas I have directed, reflecting on my actions and choices as a director and group leader. I examine whether my working method has allowed me to be spontaneous and creative, which I believe the example of "The dangerous bear" demonstrates. The process enabled me to establish trust and receptivity so that a newly constituted group dared to investigate conflicts in symbolic ways associated with illness and death. In addition I have investigated connections between the theory and philosophy of psychodrama and that of the theater of ancient Greece and Friedrich Nietzsche, all of which share the view that Dionysian or unbounded energy is significant for change. At the same time J. L Moreno, the founder of psychodrama, has made me aware that the philosophy of ancient Greek theater and Nietzsche require boundaries and fixed forms for this amorphous energy: Apollonian energy, calling for reflection and new roles. The essay also addresses developments in the Swedish healthcare system?s approach to treatment, where the requirement that methods be predicable and proven effective weighs more heavily than developing the individual?s own ability to function personally and professionally using good judgment and an increased ethical awareness. In conclusion I consider how, on a personal level, the essay has made it possible for me to combine creativity, logical reasoning and scholarly writing, which has been a great challenge.