Storytelling, the art of narrating thoughts, emotions, experiences through a process of identification, is a methodology which, thanks to its characteristics, may easily fall under the criteria developed by the Joy Model. In fact, these methodologies allow the person to undertake a path of interior growth and self-understanding into an environment that cares for the needs of the individual. These practices do not involve a simple chronological narration of the events, but their goal is to let users identify with the plot, feeling the story as their own. In doing so, the message crosses every barrier because it becomes the viewer’s personal narration. In this way, the story becomes an experience for the user, who, through the narration of a fictious story, manages to establish links with his/her own experience, finding answers to some questions about his/her own existence.
Often, these practices are used as a therapy to bring out certain problems related to the individual sphere, therefore it is important to carry them out in a protect and safe environment, where users can feel comfortable. These types of self-narration are often used in small groups, with people with complex experiential backgrounds (migrants, victims of trafficking, drug addicts, etc.) because they manage to promote a re-elaboration of meaningful experiences in order to reintegrate them into one’s own conscience. It is a transitory moment during which everyone can feel free to reimagine him/her-self.
As anticipated, storytelling and narrative technique are methodologies that can be used in groups. Through the comparison and listening of the people in the group it is possible to create a shared experience, during which everyone can be able to discover some hidden parts of the others. Therefore, storytelling is a valid support tool in group therapy paths: the narrative centrality allows to build a “care story” or a co-construction of a treatment path, a shared but also a personal “destiny” for all the members of the group (Holmes, 2014).
Through these methodologies it is possible to achieve surprising results in the emotional sphere; storytelling and narrative techniques, in fact, allow the reconnection with the self and the rediscovery of forgotten values. The learning outcomes of this process are many and those who decide to use these methods can see substantial improvements in the way they relate to the outside world and to their individuality. The people who undertake this path become active subjects, promoters of their own improvements. The narration helps to improve the relationship between the person and the outside, making him/her feel more comfortable and aware of his/her own capabilities.
