Abstract

Numerous intricate relationships between theatrical elements and psychological implementations were explored. One such relationship between the two professional fields is using theatre activities as a form of therapy for abused children, patients with intellectual disorders, and people with cancer. Another is allowing people to learn experientially through role playing (especially in youth and employer settings). Finally, analyzing the psychology behind effective theatre shows how to really get inside of people -- given that the whole point of theatre is to make people feel. It is also noteworthy that theatre's thematic changes match the psychological developments and perspectives of the time. Psychological issues (concerning the types of relationships and human behaviors which many plays illustrate) were also examined. It was concluded, from thorough readings of multiple studies between the two fields, that the relationship between the fields of psychology and theatre is a mutually beneficial one, from which people can learn a great deal about themselves.