Date of Award
Spring 5-17-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies
Major
Expressive Therapies
First Advisor
Chyela Rowe
Abstract
Interpersonal relationships play a crucial and complicated role in the mental well-being and development of emerging adults. Complex trauma has a significant negative effect on relational functioning, which plays an important role in post-traumatic growth, especially for emerging adults. This thesis reviewed current literature to outline the interaction between complex trauma and interpersonal relationships through the developmental lens of emerging adulthood. Empirical studies highlighted emotional (dys)regulation, attachment processes, and self-concept as mediating factors of this interaction. The literature reviewed offered current treatment approaches for this population, with connections that were relevant to drama therapy approaches. The literature showed that drama therapy has great potential as a treatment modality for emerging adults with complex trauma, as it is inherently relational, encourages spontaneity, is embodied, and utilizes the concept of distancing. While not generalizable, there is empirical evidence that highlights the positive effect of drama therapy on factors that mediate the interaction between trauma and relationships. Additional research is needed regarding complex trauma in emerging adulthood and the efficacy of treatment specific to this population.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Drapeau, Sarah M., "“It’s… complicated:” A Literature Review on the Possibilities of Using Drama Therapy to Improve Relational Functioning of Emerging Adults with Complex Trauma" (2025). Expressive Therapies Theses. 43.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_therapies_theses/43
