Improv Intervention for Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms: A Pilot Study from Turkey

Kozak E. D., Halimoğlu G., Kavakcı Ö.

Journal of Creativity in Mental Health, vol.20, no.1, pp.60-82, 2025 (ESCI) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 20 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1080/15401383.2024.2319825
  • Journal Name: Journal of Creativity in Mental Health
  • Journal Indexes: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, IBZ Online, CINAHL, EBSCO Education Source, Educational research abstracts (ERA), Psycinfo, Social services abstracts, Sociological abstracts
  • Page Numbers: pp.60-82
  • Keywords: improv intervention, Improvisation, obsessive-compulsive disorder, spontaneity
  • Middle East Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Improvisation is a form of theater with no predetermined script. All actors create a flow based on two core principles: “Yes, and…” and “No mistakes,” referring to accepting what the partner offers unconditionally, and embracing all contributions to creating content without judgment. This pilot study investigated whether 12 weeks of improv intervention can help alleviate individuals’ obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms. A questionnaire package was given to participants to complete at three different points. The results showed statistically significant decreases in participants’ OCD, depression, and anxiety scores from pretest to posttest measurements. By its very nature, improv intervention may help create an atmosphere full of unpredictability and invite participants to be a part of it. In improv, participants are encouraged to take risks, be in the moment, and trust each other to manage challenges. This paper will also present a discussion of possible mechanisms of change to explain the effects of improv.