Use of theater and health education with middle school students for the primary prevention of teen dating violence

Research suggests that adolescents exposed to family violence are at a higher risk for teen dating violence (TDV) victimization or perpetration; evaluation of current TDV prevention efforts substantiate the need to establish innovative approaches with long-term beneficial impact on adolescents behaviors (Leviton, Herrera, & Miller, 2015).  Studies show that theater offers a safe setting for delivering education and raising awareness of sensitive subjects; theater offers an interdisciplinary, interactive, and collaborative approach to promoting healthy behaviors (Fredland, 2010). Persephone and Me, representing a joint effort between the California State University Northridge’s theater department and the community based organization, Strength United, centers around an original play about a 14-year old girl who experiences family stress, relationship conflicts, and violence. In the fall of 2014, the play was performed for 1,734 middle school students in Los Angeles County. Post-play activities and follow up workshops reinforced the themes of the play and critically explored TDV risk and protective factors. These unique activities paired Boal's Theater of the Oppressed techniques with health education concepts. Results show that 97% of participants report that the project will help them with future relationships; and 92% intend to discuss healthy relationships with others. Qualitative results indicate a health-promoting impact as evidenced by statements indicating the planned termination of relationships newly recognized by participants as unhealthy and an increased valuation of healthy relationship norms. Further research is warranted to explore self-efficacy and long-term impact.