parallel process

[Ann Hale]

I am not sure whether Moreno addressed this concept specifically; however, he did address something he called the clustering effect when referring to the transfer of spontaneity from one role which already has access to spontaneity (and ease) to another role newer in the repertoire.  There is a parallel process at work, and this has a positive intent.  What is usually meant by the phrase is identifying when the situation being explored has similar dynamics to the actual context in which the exploration is taking place.  

It so happens that I mentioned parallel process in the latest sociometry question which I answered on symmetric and asymmetric roles www.sociometry.net and referenced Dalmiro Bustos' excellent chapter "Roots and Wings" in Psychodrama since Moreno.  In training groups parallel process comes up all the time when exploring scenes where there is a power imbalance (parents/children, boss/employee).  Directors, who use command language to move the action along (rather than incessant questioning "would you like to role reverse") can trigger the unconscious resistance when being asked to respond to a command.  Others not understanding the effectiveness of command language for mobilizing the action can misinterpret the director's role and imagine authoritarian scenarios similar to what is in fact an aspect of the content being explored.  It also comes up when a director is setting up safety measures and the issue being explored is overprotective parents.
Glad to hear from you.  Ann Hale



 Original Message ----- 
  From: Terry Makin 
  To: list at grouptalkweb.org 
  Sent: Friday, November 03, 2006 5:24 PM
  Subject: parallel process


   
  Hi all

  I have been reading the sociodynamics conversation with interest, and am wondering if Moreno talked about parallel process  - I still remember the excitement of 'seeing' this concept in action in my workplace in the form of 'as in the staffroom, so in the student group'.  Unfortunately it was a painful playing out of conflict and disturbance by a vulnerable person.  I am getting distracted wondering why I don't notice the positive aspect of parallel process more often.  Another thought - what are there any size limits to this process?

  This post is also triggered by Ann's thoughts - as one of the many

  Jean 

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