How Play Awakens the Inner Child in Black Indigenous African Adults

This study seeks to contribute to drama therapy practice in South Africa by emphasizing play as a vital process for self-discovery and emotional well-being. This is especially salient within a post-colonial, post-Apartheid South African context where historical traumas and socioeconomic disparities persist and challenge South African communities’ mental health.

The findings suggest that play is a powerful mechanism for awakening the inner child in adults, facilitating emotional expression, fostering community connections, and promoting healing from past traumas.

Ncanana, N. (2024). The Awakening: Makudlalwe. How play awakens the inner child in black Indigenous African adults. South African Journal of Arts Therapies, 2(2), 40–60. https://doi.org/10.36615/svkbvr28

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