Therapeutic Role-Playing

Overview

Therapeutic role-playing is a structured psychotherapeutic technique in which the patient simulates specific interpersonal situations under the therapist's guidance to develop new behavioural, emotional, and cognitive skills. Unlike psychodrama, which explores the inner world openly and spontaneously, therapeutic role-playing targets precise objectives: acquiring a specific behaviour, overcoming an identified social fear, or preparing for an anticipated difficult interaction.

This technique holds a central place in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), social therapy, social skills training programmes, and personal development. Its strength lies in its concrete, pragmatic character: the patient does not talk about what they could do, they actually do it in a safe setting, receive immediate feedback, and repeat until the targeted behaviour is mastered.

Core Techniques

Role training is the most structured form: the therapist identifies a target behaviour with the patient and works on it methodically through modelling, imitation, detailed feedback, and repetition. Modelling (based on Bandura's social learning theory) involves the therapist demonstrating the target behaviour while the patient observes verbal, paraverbal, and non-verbal components. Behavioural rehearsal involves repeated practice under progressively realistic conditions. Adapted role reversal helps the patient see how others perceive their behaviour. Structured feedback follows a precise methodology: positive aspects first, then constructive improvement suggestions.

Group Dynamics

Role-playing in therapeutic groups adds specific dimensions: vicarious learning multiplies learning opportunities as members observe each other; diversity of interlocutors enriches training with varied relational styles; group cohesion strengthens through shared vulnerability and mutual support; and normalisation occurs spontaneously as participants discover others share similar difficulties, reducing shame and isolation.

Specific Applications

Therapeutic role-playing is applied to social phobia (progressive exposure to feared social situations), assertiveness (training the four core assertive skills), conflict management (practising non-violent communication and resolution strategies), adolescents (dynamic scenarios addressing peer pressure, cyberbullying, risk behaviours), and preparation for specific situations (job interviews, oral defences, difficult confrontations).

Typical Session

A group therapeutic role-playing session typically lasts 90 minutes across five phases: identification (15 minutes) of a specific situation and measurable behavioural objective; preparation (10 minutes) with detailed situation description and optional modelling; playing (30-40 minutes) with multiple attempts incorporating feedback; feedback (15 minutes) from participant, group, and therapist; and generalisation (10 minutes) with a concrete practice commitment for the coming week.

Contraindications

Therapeutic role-playing requires precautions for excessive performance anxiety (gradual progression is essential), marked cognitive rigidity (preliminary perspective-taking work may be needed), untreated trauma (scenarios related to unresolved trauma may trigger reactivation), and acute intra-group conflict (interpersonal conflicts should be addressed before using role-play as a resolution tool). The technique must be conducted by professionals trained in behavioural techniques and group facilitation.