"I stand as I am"
Modern Approach to Empowering Young Minds
Elevating the self-worth and self-image of the younger generation is crucial in preventing bullying, harmful behaviors, and depression, believes Dr. Hauke Duckwitz, a pediatrician and youth specialist, as well as the head of the children's welfare association. He works with over 40 counselors at the confidential helpline for children and teens, where they can discuss their issues anonymously and free of charge. Every Saturday, these sessions are exclusively for young people.
As the primary collaborator, the children's welfare association champions the mobile theater piece "I am as I am." This thought-provoking piece, led by young director Marlene Hildebrand, takes a stand against the pressure from fashion, advertising, and fitness trends. Designed for students in 8th through 12th grade, the classroom play delivers a potent message through dynamics, confrontation, envy, rejection, and reconciliation. Hildebrand encapsulates the production's message, stating, "Rather than dictating 'you should, must, could,' we aim to demonstrate that we all have ideals, but we can change our perspective and look at ourselves and others with more love."
Following a performance, the director, actors, and educational experts engage in conversations with the young audience members. The objective is to open lines of communication for the young people to view themselves more positively, leading to more open and empathetic conversations in the classroom about topics like body shaming and the associated emotions, such as shame, sadness, anger, or loneliness.
Alexandra Haußmann, headmaster of the Hulda-Pankok comprehensive school and a cooperating institution, explains, "We view school as more than just math and German; we understand the significance of topics like appearance, clothing, and the damaging effects of derogatory remarks that escalate to bullying." By offering diverse groups the opportunity to participate and strengthen their self-confidence beyond the influence of social media, the school seeks to provide a supportive environment that encourages self-acceptance and promotes empathy.
Theater’s Power to Transform
Though data specific to "I am as I am" is scarce, theater can significantly impact self-perception, self-esteem, and bullying prevention among young people. Engaging in theater activities offers young people a platform for self-expression and creativity, enabling them to build confidence through public performances and interactions. This boost in self-image and esteem can potentially reduce bullying and harmful behaviors.
Moreover, theater fosters empathy by allowing young people to experience various perspectives and stories, making it easier for them to relate to others, promoting an inclusive environment, and potentially reducing bullying. Theater's social skills development benefits can also help young people build positive relationships and minimize conflicts contributing to bullying. Theater also offers programs, like TADA Youth Theater, that immerse young people in musical theater, fostering a supportive environment that indirectly promotes positive self-perception and reduces bullying. Grassroots organizations can also be instrumental in delivering diverse perspectives and addressing local needs.
- In the strategic collaboration between the children's welfare association and the Hulda-Pankok comprehensive school, the aim is to incorporate lifestyle changes, such as self-acceptance and empathy, into the curriculum, drawing on the power of theater for fostering positive self-image and combating bullying.
- By incorporating education-and-self-development programs, like the theater production "I am as I am" and TADA Youth Theater, into their initiatives, these organizations strive to enlighten young minds about fashion-and-beauty ideals, advocating for personal-growth, and creating a more inclusive and empathetic society.
