Theodramatic Rehearsal: Fighting Self-Deception through the Dramatic Imagination

Brett Vaden

doi:10.3390/rel5010304

Abstract

This paper seeks to appropriate the insights of dramatic theology for Christian psychology and soul care. According to Kevin Vanhoozer, Scripture is the ‘script’ for human beings’ fitting participation in the acts and deeds of God in the world (i.e., ‘theodrama’). Keeping with this dramatic paradigm, the author will explore what ‘rehearsal’ might entail by drawing from a branch of psychotherapy called ‘psychodrama.’ The main question to be addressed in this appropriation of dramatic theology is, “How might dramatic rehearsal combat self-deception?” The author will only begin to answer this question, but in the attempt it is hoped that further reflection and clarity will be induced.

Highlights

Dramatic Action “ Buttercup was gone, out of sight.Westley took a breath
Self-deception is a concept that has received ample consideration. It has been discussed across various disciplines, especially psychology, ethics, and theology
When the drama of one’s life is oriented to the drama of Christ, one can rehearse new ways for living that break out of one’s old identity and that correspond to who one is in Christ

Summary

Introduction

He was aware of the score of soldiers starting to surround him, and probably he could have made a few of them perspire for their victory. According to the Bible, human persons do not develop into full humanity unless they assert their will: “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth” (Gen. 1:28) If this command is foundational to full human life, action is required to mature as a human. Humans are not objects meant to be acted upon, but have their telos as actors who imagine possibilities, deliberate upon those possibilities, make decisions, act, and bear responsibility—all in full conscious awareness

The Theodrama

Self-Deception

Psychodrama

Integrating Psychodrama into the Theodrama

Conclusions