Abstract
M.Ed.
This research study focuses on researching the success of drama as intervention — and
educational medium in the alteration of perceptions held regarding male homosexuality.
The study is motivated by the fact that discrimination against males with this sexual
orientation has evolved into a part of South African's everyday lives. The study is
completed within the framework of the Existential paradigm.
In the achievement of the above-mentioned study goal, the researcher applied the
techniques of Qualitative research, and specifically used phenomenological studies
according to this paradigm. The data was gathered through a variety of techniques
(questionnaires, sketches and in-depth personal interviews) which enhanced the viability
and reliability of the study through Triangulation.
The drama, named "Die Voelverslcrikker" (with its own educational implications), was
written according to the style of Absurd theatre, which projected the Existentialist
philosophy in art. The drama was shown to the six people who participated in the study.
Analyzing these responses gathered before the drama was seen, led to the identification
of phenomenons, which were categorized. This proved to the researcher that the
participants showed little insight into male homosexuality. It also enhanced the fact that
negative attitudes toward male homosexuals were held. These findings justified the
purpose of the study. These results were compared with the participants' responses after
the play was seen, which led to conclusions regarding growth and change in insight
regarding male homosexuality, bat a stagnancy in attitude towards males with this sexual
orientation. These results were explained according to the Existential paradigm. In this
regard the researcher mentioned fusion, the perceptual neuropsychological organization,
introspection and Pragmatism.
The researcher also proposes that this study presents a lot of other research opportunities.