Psychiatric Bulletin (2007) 31: 234. doi: 10.1192/pb.31.5.234a
© 2007 The Royal College of Psychiatrists
Therapeutic use of soap operas
David Ogden, Consultant in Old Age Psychiatry
Gloucestershire Partnership NHS Trust, Gloucester GL14 2QA, email:
david.ogden{at}glos.nhs.uk
Dr Breen describes the therapeutic use of soap operas in a boy with
autistic-spectrum disorders (Psychiatric Bulletin, February 2007,
31, 6769). The use
of soap operas is already widespread in old age psychiatry as a tool for
informal assessment of cognition. Personally, I cannot bear their blend of
stereotypical characters, exaggerated emotions and simplistic conflict, yet
feel duty bound to monitor plot lines as a matter of professional obligation.
Now it seems our colleagues in child and adolescent psychiatry may become
similarly compelled to watch these grinding pantomimes in the name of
enhancing the social intelligence of their flock. Is now the time to call for
such activities to be formally incorporated into our job plans?
Related articles in PB:
- Therapeutic use of soap operas in autistic-spectrum disorders
- Lynda Breen
PB 2007 31: 67-69.
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