Presentation Type

Poster

Becoming Magnificent: Drama Therapy and ASD

Abstract

Becoming Magnificent: Drama Therapy and ASD

Jacqueline Faluade

Mentor: Lisa Powers Tricomi. LCAT/RDT, Loretta Gallo-Lopez, LMHC/RDT/BCT/RPT

With the growing number of Autism Specturm Disorder diagnoses, the cause is still unknown and little research is being conducted in search of the best treatment. This work presents the improved performance of a group of children and teens diagnosed with ASD using drama therapy, through the ACT Project, founded by Loretta Gallo-Lopez, with USF Visiting Assoc. Professor in Theatre, Lisa Powers Tricomi. Drama therapy is used as the treatment modality to address difficulties in social interaction, communication, and imagination, which are common deficits in people who are diagnosed with ASD. The ACT Method, developed by Tricomi and Gallo-Lopez, targets these deficits and applies drama techniques using non directive role play and play building techniques, developing original scripts that culminate in performance. A compilation of notes and videos depict the tremendous change in attitude, personality, and even self appearance of the children over six months displaying that drama therapy is a very effective treatment for children and teens diagnosed on the autism spectrum. If started at an earlier age, the results may be more impacting as a treatment.

Categories

Behavioral Sciences

Research Type

Course Related

Mentor Information

Lisa Powers Tricomi

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Becoming Magnificent: Drama Therapy and ASD

Becoming Magnificent: Drama Therapy and ASD

Jacqueline Faluade

Mentor: Lisa Powers Tricomi. LCAT/RDT, Loretta Gallo-Lopez, LMHC/RDT/BCT/RPT

With the growing number of Autism Specturm Disorder diagnoses, the cause is still unknown and little research is being conducted in search of the best treatment. This work presents the improved performance of a group of children and teens diagnosed with ASD using drama therapy, through the ACT Project, founded by Loretta Gallo-Lopez, with USF Visiting Assoc. Professor in Theatre, Lisa Powers Tricomi. Drama therapy is used as the treatment modality to address difficulties in social interaction, communication, and imagination, which are common deficits in people who are diagnosed with ASD. The ACT Method, developed by Tricomi and Gallo-Lopez, targets these deficits and applies drama techniques using non directive role play and play building techniques, developing original scripts that culminate in performance. A compilation of notes and videos depict the tremendous change in attitude, personality, and even self appearance of the children over six months displaying that drama therapy is a very effective treatment for children and teens diagnosed on the autism spectrum. If started at an earlier age, the results may be more impacting as a treatment.