Applied theater: Using improvisation in social services as an illustrating example

Abstract

SummarySince the practice of interdisciplinary collaboration in applied theater for social work with children and youth in Hong Kong is rare, this study explores its applicability for maximizing beneficial outcomes. An improv group for youth was jointly conducted by a social worker and a theater tutor. A mixed-methods study was undertaken involving 38 undergraduate university students to evaluate group effectiveness.FindingsQuantitative results showed that participants displayed enhanced personal growth and sense of self, and the interaction effect between the intervention and improvisational activities was significant. Qualitative results indicated that participants assessed the collaboration between the two professional tutors as effective for enhancing participants’ self-understanding and various capacities to handle life challenges.ApplicationsInterdisciplinary collaboration in applied theater is advocated for social work practice, so as to further strengthen the development of participants’ insight.