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The Psychological Effects of Method Acting

Whether it's on the stage or the screen, acting demands a lot from performers. Neuroscience and psychology reveal what happens in the brain during method acting.

By Carla Delgado
Jun 9, 2023 1:00 PM
Theatre actor holding drama and comedy mask
(Credit: Shutterstock/Tikhonova Yana)

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The art of theatre is probably one of the oldest forms of entertainment there is. Even now, audiences still gather in open-air amphitheaters, black box theaters and (of course) multiplex movie theaters to watch all kinds of stories unfold before their eyes. And sitting in the dark with strangers to experience that would not be possible without the actors who take on various roles to tell the tale.

Acting is far more than just pretending to be someone else. Rather, it's a complex process that requires an individual to fully embody another character, including their personality, emotions, motivations and mannerisms.

Given acting's cognitive and emotional demands, let's take a look at the neural mechanisms of getting into character.

The Psychology of Method Acting

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