THE USE OF ROLE PLAYING GAMES (RPG) IN GROUP GESTALT-THERAPY: POSSIBILITIES AND LIMITS OF WORKING WITH POLARITIES

Abstract

The present study aimed to understand the effects of the use of RPG in group psychotherapy for working with polarities in Gestalt therapy. The research took place in four experimental sessions, lasting approximately three hours each, with three player-patients and three narrator-therapists. The results point to a potentiation of the work with polarities through RPG, by the possibility of experimentation and experience of the polar elements in progress for the patient/players, allowing greater creativity in the chosen paths, facilitating a process of awareness, integration of polarities and production of creative adjustments. Some limitations are also important to mention: the excessively long time of the sessions, possible difficulties in organizing sessions with patients unfamiliar with the RPG, or even with more rational people, unwilling to dive into the world of fantasy.