Role Behavior and Group Concept in Drawings

Summary

A projective drawing technique devised by Ferin to assess role potential in children was used with adult male patients, most of whom were schizophrenic. The technique assesses personal role tendencies along the four dimensions of dominance, dependence, aggression, and isolation. Using a construct and concurrent validity design, data was collected on two samples of patients in group therapy at the Brecksville VA Hospital. Analysis of data supports the use of the technique with this population. While empirical validity is yet to be established, results strongly suggest that this tool may be helpful in the study of group structure and as an aid in setting up groups of mutually reinforcing patients.