Examining the effects of an improvisation group on social anxiety among youth: A pilot study

Abstract

Theatrical improvisation is an activity that involves performing a scene without any preparation, which a number of studies have found to be beneficial to players’ physical and mental wellbeing and interpersonal skills. Due to its cohesive and humorous nature, it has potential in alleviating some challenges that may accompany mental health conditions such as social anxiety. This disorder is important to address, especially in youth, as its impact on individuals can range from causing difficulty in everyday interactions to hindering school and community engagement. Thus, improvisation was investigated as a non-traditional form of therapy for social anxiety. Over the course of the 12-week program, improvisation was practised among a group of help-seeking youth at a mental health facility. The qualitative method allowed for the analysis of interviews given by participants. Key quotations were categorized into four distinct themes, which describe particular aspects and effects of improvisation. They are common points that were echoed by most, if not all, of the interviewed participants. They included Challenging Anxiety, Community, Life Skills, and General Positive Impact. Furthermore, quantitative findings derived from Subjective Units of Distress Scale (SUDS) showed a decrease in distress scores from beginning to end of the improvisation program. The predominantly positive results of this pilot study suggest that improvisation may be an effective means of reducing anxiety and spurring personal growth. Not only is it a form of exposure therapy that allows participants to confront their fears in a non-judgemental setting, it may also serve as a supplemental treatment to traditional ones that may not be suitable for individuals.