Investigation of the Impact of Drama Therapy on Trauma Recovery Among Conflict-Affected Youth in Adamawa State

Drama therapy uses theatrical processes to support psychological healing and emotional expression, and its application in post-conflict communities in North East Nigeria holds significant potential for youth psychosocial recovery. This study investigated the impact of drama therapy sessions on trauma symptom reduction among conflict-affected youth in Yola North and Girei Local Government Areas, Adamawa State, North East Nigeria. A quasi-experimental design compared trauma symptom scores between 80 youth who participated in 12 structured drama therapy sessions and 80 matched youth in a waiting-list control group. The Child PTSD Symptom Scale was adapted and administered before and after the 12-week intervention. Results showed significant reductions in PTSD symptom scores in the drama therapy group (mean pre-score 24.7, post-score 14.3, p < 0.001), while the control group showed minimal change. Drama therapy participants demonstrated improved emotional expression ability and reduced avoidance behaviour. Facilitators observed increased group cohesion and willingness to verbalise experiences by week 6 of the programme. Four participants withdrew from the intervention due to distress during early sessions, indicating the need for enhanced screening. The study concludes that drama therapy is a promising psychosocial intervention for conflict-affected youth in Adamawa State. Recommendations include training community-based facilitators in trauma-informed drama therapy, integrating drama therapy into UNICEF and UNHCR psychosocial support programmes, and monitoring participant wellbeing rigorously throughout session cycles. Keywords: drama therapy, trauma recovery, conflict-affected youth, Adamawa State, psychosocial support