Socialization and deviance are both processes and products. Drama parallels socialization in that it meets social needs for both unconditional and conditional love, through the involvement of both a cohesive group and a director. In addition, it provides a playful atmosphere and develops a sense of power and self-respect. Furthermore, the individual's involvement in changing roles can enhance empathy and morality. Finally, involvement in dramatics provides an exciting arts environment that may compete with criminal and drug subcultures by linking catharsis and role playing to the theater. Dramatics also parallels deviance in that both seem to focus on reenacting the tragic themes of individual life histories. Spontaneous and formal drama productions both may provide corrective group processes that meet individuals' needs for love and power while imposing discipline. In dramatics, those who err or who are cruel can die symbolically in the play. Existing evaluations of the use of dramatics, imagery, and role-playing activities in corrections support the view that greater involvement in dramatics is associated with less deviance. 97 references.