Theater Engagement and Self-Concept in College Undergraduates

Abstract

The experience of coliege undergraduate theater majors was investigated to determine the potential influence of the associated occupations on self-concept. The study employed a qualitative, interpretative, case-study methodology. Four participants were interviewed to gain their perspectives regarding the meaning of various aspects of theater occupations relative to self-concept. Interview data was supplemented by multiple observations of participants in the context of play rehearsal and production. Analysis of interview data revealed that participants identified opportunities for self-reflection within the context of the theater major as meaningful in regards to self-concept. Thematic analysis revealed that occupations identified by participants as significant for self-concept induded: academic coursework, character development activities, auditioning, and typecasting. Findings support the notion that aspects of occupations associated with an undergraduate major in theater influence self-concept.

Keywords:

• Self-concept
• Theater occupations
• Qualitative research
• College undergraduates