Psychotherapy with the psychodrama approach: Pilot study of the perceived effectiveness of psychodrama and the role reversal technique

Psychodrama has a long history, takes multiple forms of enactment, and includes numerous techniques, with role reversal considered a foundational component. Both psychodramatic therapy and the role reversal technique can be applied in various contexts to explore the psyche, facilitate conflict resolution, foster self-integration, and enhance emotional regulation and personal growth. This study aimed to explore the perceived effectiveness of psychotherapy using the psychodrama approach, with a particular focus on the perceived effectiveness of the role reversal technique. The study used the online application of the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (Davis, 1983) and the "EPP - Assessment of Perceived Effectiveness of Psychodramatic Psychotherapy" questionnaire, specifically created for this purpose. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative methodologies, with a sample of 118 participants over 18 years old who had experienced or were currently undergoing sessions with the Psychodrama approach. The "Assessment of Perceived Effectiveness of Psychodramatic Psychotherapy" questionnaire is a self-report tool administered once, consisting of three parts: a Sociodemographic Questionnaire, the "Scale of Assessment of Perceived Effectiveness of Psychodrama," and the "Scale of Assessment of Perceived Effectiveness of the Role reversal Technique in Psychodrama." The results suggest that psychodramatic therapy and the role reversal technique are perceived as effective by clients who have undergone Psychodrama sessions, and that the EPP instrument is suitable, providing relevant and reliable information. • Role Reversal in Psychodrama fosters empathy, self-awareness, and emotional growth. • Clients find Psychodrama effective for emotional regulation and personal development. • Longer Psychodrama use increases perceived effectiveness in therapy outcomes. • Role Reversal is a key technique in Psychodrama with high perceived client effectiveness. • The EPP is a useful tool to assess and guide Psychodramatic Therapy practice.