An initial exploration of sexual identity among adolescent orphan females using process drama techniques: a case study of orphans living at Sparrow Rainbow Village
Date
2012-10-04
Authors
Sani-Chimwele, Alinafe
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Abstract
This research conducts an analysis of Process Drama as a tool towards exploring sexual identity
among adolescent orphan girls in relation to the spread of HIV/AIDS in South Africa. Using
Process Drama, an educational method that conceptually and practically employs elements of
drama to educate and to deepen the participant’s quality of experience, this research explored
how through engaging with issues of identity, a mature understanding of sexuality can be
encouraged among adolescent girls which may help to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS
The study was also an attempt to deconstruct societal constructions of girls’ sexuality that leave
out their sexual subjectivity, stressing the importance in defining strong identities among orphans
as a way of encouraging their individuality and power in relationships. The research provided a
platform through which adolescent orphan girls could face their own emotions and feelings, and
those of others and try to identify and understand the root causes in the spread of HIV/AIDS.
It was discovered that orphan hood impacts emotionally, financially and socially on the
individual, such that it is important for there to be regular drama workshops in orphanages as a
way of addressing adversity, loss and pain.
Drama is empowering. Through the unique process of enactment, its diversity of form stimulates
creativity and imagination, aesthetic sensitivity and fulfillment. It provides opportunities for
investigation and reflection, for celebration and challenge. It is a potent means of collaboration
and communication which can change the ways people feel, think and behave. By its
combination of the affective and the effective, it sharpens perception, enables personal
expression and the growth of intellectual and emotional literacy. It provides a framework for the
exploration of ideas and feelings and the making of meaning.
Description
M.A. University of The Witwatersrand, Faculty of Humanities (Applied Drama), 2012