Reactions of Health Professionals to a Research-Based Theatre Production

Abstract

There is a recent trend in the social sciences--predominantly among researchers engaged with qualitative methodologies--to translate research finding into artistic and narrative forms. In this paper, we describe our work in translating finding about the experiences of men with prostate cancer and their spouses into a dramatic production, No Big Deal? We then report upon, and provide commentary about data from interviews with health professionals who attended a performance. Health professionals (N = 26) were interviewed within 2 weeks of attending a performance of No Big Deal? and again 6 months later (N = 23). After attendance at the performance, many study participants reported (at both interview times): new awareness or understanding about the issues facing prostate cancer patients; reinforcements of their positive attitudes and behaviors in relation to patients; an increased sense of connection with ill people; and plans to alter their clinical practices to better meet patient needs. Narrative and dramatic forms are viable ways to communicate vital information about the possibilities for professionals to be helpful to patients--and they are the wave of the future for educational and dissemination practices.