Abstract:
The purpose of this research is to study the inner change of youth about growing empathy through Image Theatre process and to study the characteristics of the Image Theatre process that are suitable for growing empathy in youth aged between 13- 16 years of Putalay Maha Witchalai Mab Aung School. This is a qualitative research using research method in the form of action research. The research participants are 15 students of Putalay Maha Witchalai Mab Aung School, aged between 13 - 16 years. The tools used in this research are the process of Image Theatre integrated with Contemplative Education. The data were collected by written reflections, in- depth interviews, observations, and recorded data through notebooks, photos, audio clips, and video clips. The results found that the participants were more empathic to each other in which their relationships have been changed in a better way. Moreover, they listened open-mindedly and were able to accept and respect differences among each other and, as a consequence, the conflicts in relationship have been resolved and unity became stronger. The Image theatre processes that were suitable for this group of participants consisted of characterization, deep listening, collaboration and contemplation. These are 4 main factors for growing empathy that the participants had reflected. In addition, another supporting factors are: the processes must be fun, the activities and stories must be suitable for the age as well as context of the group and, finally, the process should be adjusted to be as flexible as possible to be appropriate for the teaching and learning schedule of the school. The results also showed that those 4 main factors could help growing 6 inner qualities of the participants namely self- awareness, trust and open-mindedness, self- adjustment, understanding, acceptance- and- respect, and connection- and- unity. These are essential qualities that lead to empathy.