Kerry Altman

Publications (2) View all

• Article: The effect of a music participation program on self concept and extraversion of senior citizens in a day treatment facility /

  Kerry Paul. Altman
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  ABSTRACT: Thesis (Ph. D.)--California School of Professional Psychology, San Diego, 1977.
• Article: Psychodrama with the institutionalized elderly: A method for role re-engagement.

  Kerry P. Altman
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  ABSTRACT: Presents a model for understanding chronic institutionalization of elderly patients in terms of role reduction and role loss. The model provides a method of group psychodrama aimed at role re-engagement and reversal of institutionalized behavior patterns. Psychodrama is concerned with promoting spontaneous growth and development rather than responding to pathology. The structure of psychodrama is described in 3 phases: the warm-up, the action, and the sharing. The use of action group methods fosters group cohesion, spontaneity, role re-engagement, and role substitution. Group members can become therapeutic agents for one another, making reliance on chronic institutionalized behaviors less habitual. A case study of a 73-yr-old female illustrates application of this theory. This approach requires willingness by the therapist to seek a varied role repertoire to invoke the appropriate reciprocal role; perceived resistance of patients may indicate a therapeutic inability to find their effective role correlate. It is suggested that all members of the institutional environment represent potential resources for continued role engagement and development in an on-going system. (6 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
  Journal of group psychotherapy, psychodrama and sociometry 10/1983;