self-expression

[Adam Blatner]

Dear Erica and All,
       Happy Summer. About self-expression,
   I have a section on this topic in Foundations of Psychodrama.
     Essentially, the mind is pervaded by subtle maneuvers (not quite voices, though they 
can be helped to be made more explicit using the multiple parts of self technique) that 
bury, disqualify, excuse, rationalize, compartmentalize in many ways what is uncomfortable 
to face clearly. As a result, many people are out of touch with their more authentic 
feelings and attitudes. Saying these so that they are heard by others anchors or fixes 
them in consensual reality and makes these thoughts easier then to reflect on consciously. 
>From this context they can be subjected also to re-evaluation in light of higher and more 
mature perspectives and values.
      Further comments interspersed below:
From: "Erica Hollander" <ericahollander at comcast.net>  July 29, 2007 : what you all think 
makes self expression therapeutic. Plainly, it is not always so:  the self expressions of 
sociopaths can be dangerous and  are often not welcomed by others or good for anything 
observable for the doers.
       AB: The problem with almost any quality or term is that in the realm of mind and 
social life there are those who can turn a given word into folly or wickedness. One should 
not rely on not only any aspect of the cultural conserve, but also there are no words, 
values, noble-sounding labels or formulas that cannot be sullied. This is why spontaneity 
invites an exercise of discrimination in the moment.
      I'd be interested in a more specific example of how a "sociopath" distorts the norm 
of "self-expression" so that it is destructive. That could help us understand your point.

   EH  Yet, in general,  we foster self expression in psychodrama and find it useful and 
helpful.  What is it that makes that so?  (AB: see above, but with qualifications, as 
noted).
   EH  My late husband used to  like to say that "everyone likes to feel seen, heard 
acknowledged and  respected for who and what they are."  I agree that that seems to be the 
case but I am not sure just why, or when self expression crosses
over to potentially dangerous or destructive action.
       AB: Well, I'm also reminded of the problem with rules. Generally, one can be more 
flexible with relatively mature adults who have demonstrated their willingness to follow 
almost all the rules. Then exceptions can be made. On the other hand, with kids aged 9 - 
16, especially, one should on the whole be more firm, because part of their maturation is 
an unconscious probing as to what they can get away with.
       If you're dealing with people who are what you call more sociopathic, or of the 
criminal or offender class, one should adapt the nature of the work accordingly.

     Moreover, I am not sure that we know much about what the brain activity is that sets 
this apart from other actions.  Any thoughts on these issues will be welcome.  Thanks 
Erica Hollander
           Adam: Erica and others, what did you think of my explanation and what else 
needs to be said?

Warmly, Adam