Damaso
JF-Expert Member
- Jul 18, 2018
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Movies aren't just fun; they can be powerful tools for understanding and managing our emotions. We all know how a sad film can bring on tears or a comedy can lift our spirits. But what if movies could be used to delve deeper, to explore and process difficult emotions in a safe space?
A photo courtesy of The New York Times.
This is the exciting idea behind film therapy, a growing field of research. Studies suggest it can be surprisingly effective in helping people deal with challenging emotions, potentially leading to better mental health. Imagine watching movies such as, Past Lives (2023), Atonement (2007), Grave of the Fireflies (1989), Blue Valentine (2010) or My Sister's Keeper (2009) and you keep your eyes cold? In one of these movies you will cry for sure.
Here's how it works: films can engage us emotionally in a way that feels therapeutic. Discussing characters and their struggles can be easier than directly confronting our own issues, offering a safe distance for reflection. Movies can also teach us valuable life skills by showing characters navigate challenges.
Here's how it works: films can engage us emotionally in a way that feels therapeutic. Discussing characters and their struggles can be easier than directly confronting our own issues, offering a safe distance for reflection. Movies can also teach us valuable life skills by showing characters navigate challenges.
A photo courtesy of Salt Lake Film Society.
Research suggests film therapy can be especially helpful for specific groups. Young people with autism can discover their strengths and build resilience. Psychiatric patients may find it easier to express themselves through film characters. Even teenagers struggling with family conflict can benefit from improved communication and empathy through film therapy. While film therapy is new, there's a rich history behind its core concept. Think back to ancient Greek tragedies – audiences experienced a form of emotional release (catharsis) by empathizing with characters. Movies and TV shows offer a similar experience, allowing us to feel and express emotions without real-world consequences.
Film combines powerful elements like storytelling, imagery, music, and metaphor, all of which have been shown to have therapeutic benefits. Plus, movies and TV are readily available and offer familiar ground for discussion in therapy sessions. There's still much to learn about using film therapy most effectively. However, recent research has led to the development of the "Movie Method." This method provides a framework for reflecting on movies, whether used in therapy or on your own.
Film combines powerful elements like storytelling, imagery, music, and metaphor, all of which have been shown to have therapeutic benefits. Plus, movies and TV are readily available and offer familiar ground for discussion in therapy sessions. There's still much to learn about using film therapy most effectively. However, recent research has led to the development of the "Movie Method." This method provides a framework for reflecting on movies, whether used in therapy or on your own.
A photo courtesy of The Independent .
The Movie Method encourages mindful engagement. Before watching, consider your emotional state and how the movie might affect you. Then, while watching, pay close attention to your thoughts, feelings, and physical responses. Don't judge your emotions; simply observe them. Afterward, identify and name your emotions. Writing them down can be helpful. Explore these feelings – are there physical sensations associated with them? Sometimes, simply acknowledging an emotion can make it shift. Consider what your emotions need, perhaps kindness or understanding, and imagine receiving that.
Next, delve deeper. What did the movie mean to you? Who did you connect with? How does the character's journey mirror your own experiences? Remember, movies can offer diverse perspectives, but it's important to critically analyze how characters and issues are portrayed to avoid stereotypes.
Next, delve deeper. What did the movie mean to you? Who did you connect with? How does the character's journey mirror your own experiences? Remember, movies can offer diverse perspectives, but it's important to critically analyze how characters and issues are portrayed to avoid stereotypes.
A photo courtesy of Raindance.
Finally, explore possibilities for growth. How did characters in the movie overcome challenges? What can you learn from their experiences? Are there connections between the movie's story and your own? Imagine yourself changing the story or writing a sequel. Reflect on any takeaways you can carry forward. So, the next time you settle in for a movie night, consider using film therapy techniques. By engaging more mindfully, you might discover surprising insights about yourself and the world around you.