Constructing Pathways for Drama Therapy to Promote Urban Adaptation of Migrant Children: An Action Study Based on Community Y

Abstract

Urban adaptation is crucial for the social integration of migrant children; however, traditional intervention approaches have limitations in addressing emotional needs and promoting deep participation. This study aims to explore and construct an intervention pathway for migrant children’s urban adaptation, centered on drama therapy and applicable to community settings. Based on the practice environment of Community Y, the study employed action research methods, conducting two rounds of spiral-style practice involving “planning-action-observation-reflection” with 30 migrant children. Data was collected through qualitative methods such as participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and drama diaries. The study identified and systematically elucidated a progressive pathway consisting of four core components: “establishing emotional security—reconstructing cognition—practicing skills—identity recognition.” The formation process and preliminary application of this pathway demonstrate that drama therapy, through its unique experiential, expressive, and social aspects, provides an operable, compassionate, and widely applicable practical solution for addressing the challenges of urban adaptation for migrant children.