Diane Conrad (University of Alberta): Drama, Role Theory and “At-risk” Youth: Implications for Teacher Education

The capacity of drama education for individual and interpersonal development is well recognized. Role theory, borrowed from Moreno’s psychodrama, suggests strategies for drama education that further developmental goals My research exploring the concept “at-risk” from the perspectives of youth so defined reveals role theory at play in youth choosing to engage in risky activities. If resistance is characteristic of some youth’s responses to schooling, then educators need to re-think how they label youth behaviour and other schooling practices obstructive to learning.  Using role theory to inform drama education can turn youth resistance to productive ends and help youth create sustainable and rewarding identities.