🎭Improvisational Leadership Unit 11 – Ethics & Authenticity in Improv Leadership

Key Concepts in Ethics & Authenticity

• Ethics involves a set of moral principles that guide behavior and decision-making
• Authenticity means being true to one's own personality, values, and spirit
• Ethical leadership requires acting with honesty, integrity, and transparency
• Authentic leaders are self-aware, genuine, and lead from their core values
• Ethical behavior builds trust, credibility, and respect among team members
• Authenticity fosters psychological safety and encourages others to be their true selves
• Balancing ethics and authenticity with the spontaneous nature of improv can be challenging

Ethical Foundations in Improv Leadership

• Improv leaders have a responsibility to create a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment
• Establishing clear ethical guidelines and boundaries is essential for effective improv leadership
• Key ethical principles in improv include consent, respect, and support for fellow performers
• Improv leaders should model ethical behavior and lead by example
• Encouraging open communication and feedback helps maintain ethical standards
• Ethical improv leadership involves being aware of power dynamics and avoiding exploitation
• Leaders should foster a culture of accountability and address unethical behavior promptly

Authenticity: What It Means and Why It Matters

• Authenticity in improv means being genuine, present, and true to oneself
• Authentic behavior builds trust and connection among performers and with the audience
• Being authentic requires vulnerability, openness, and a willingness to take risks
• Authenticity allows for more honest and compelling storytelling in improv
• Authentic leaders inspire others to bring their whole selves to the performance
• Lack of authenticity can lead to forced, contrived, or disconnected improv scenes
• Cultivating authenticity involves self-reflection, self-awareness, and personal growth

Balancing Ethics and Spontaneity in Improv

• Improv relies on spontaneity, but ethical considerations should not be sacrificed for the sake of a scene
• Ethical boundaries can be established while still allowing for creative freedom and exploration
• Improv leaders should encourage performers to trust their instincts while staying within ethical guidelines
• Open communication and check-ins can help ensure everyone feels comfortable and respected
• Balancing ethics and spontaneity requires ongoing practice, reflection, and adjustment
• Leaders should be prepared to intervene or redirect scenes that cross ethical boundaries
  • Techniques may include editing, reframing, or debriefing after the scene

Challenges to Ethical Leadership in Improv Scenarios

• High-pressure, fast-paced improv environments can make it difficult to prioritize ethics
• Ego, competition, or a desire to be funny can lead performers to push boundaries
• Power imbalances (experience level, social status) can create ethical challenges
• Cultural differences or varying personal boundaries can lead to misunderstandings or conflicts
• Improv leaders may face pressure to tolerate unethical behavior for the sake of the show
• Balancing individual expression with group cohesion and ethical standards can be challenging
• Addressing unethical behavior requires courage, tact, and a commitment to the group's well-being

Techniques for Maintaining Authenticity Under Pressure

• Regularly practice self-reflection and self-awareness exercises to stay grounded
• Develop a personal "authenticity checklist" to help guide decisions and behavior
• Foster a supportive, non-judgmental environment that encourages authentic expression
• Use "I" statements to express personal thoughts, feelings, and boundaries
• Practice active listening and empathy to create genuine connections with others
• Embrace vulnerability and be willing to share personal experiences or emotions
• Take breaks or engage in self-care practices to avoid burnout and maintain authenticity

Case Studies: Ethics in Action

• Analyze real-world examples of ethical dilemmas in improv leadership (consent violations, offensive content)
• Discuss how leaders responded to these situations and the outcomes of their actions
• Examine cases where authenticity was maintained or compromised under pressure
• Explore how different ethical frameworks (deontology, utilitarianism) might guide decision-making
• Consider alternative approaches or solutions to the ethical challenges presented
• Reflect on personal experiences with ethical dilemmas in improv and lessons learned
• Use case studies as a starting point for group discussions and learning opportunities

Applying Ethical Improv Leadership in Real-World Situations

• Recognize that the principles of ethical improv leadership extend beyond the stage
• Apply concepts of consent, respect, and support in personal and professional relationships
• Use improv skills (active listening, adaptability) to navigate real-world ethical challenges
• Advocate for ethical behavior and speak up against injustice or misconduct
• Foster a culture of authenticity and psychological safety in work and community settings
• Embrace the role of an ethical leader and change agent in various contexts (education, business, activism)
• Continuously reflect on and refine one's ethical leadership practices based on real-world experiences