playtherapy

Play Therapy In Progress Jeffrey K. Edwards, Ed.D. Northeastern Illinois University Department of Counselor Education

A Short History -

Little Hans - Freud's work with a phobia
Virginia Axline 1947- Play Therapy
Moustakes, Clark (1973). Children in Play Therapy - relationship based
Winnicott, D.W. (1977). The Piggle: The psychoanalytic treatment of a little girl.
Jernberg, A.M. (1979). Theraplay
Schaefer, C.E. & O'Connor, K. J. (Eds), (1983). Handbook of Play Therapy
Combrinck-Graham, L. (1989) (ed). Children in Family Context
O'Connor, K. J. (1991). The Play Therapy Primer
McMahon, L. (1992). The handbook of play therapy
Journal of Play Therapy

Frameworks

Psychoanalytic
Client Centered
Relational
Jungian
Adlerian
Family Systems

Techniques

Puppets
Art
Sand Play
Games
Doll Houses

Research

Only efficacy studies show positive outcome
Family Treatment of children's problems have a greater positive outcome

Play

Symbolic
The world of the child
Acts out real life conflicts and issues
Fun
Play therapy is that -- it is not a talking therapy, but it can lead to that.

The seminal work on play therapy with children was written by Virginia Axlin in 1947. She outlined eight principles of working with children in a therapeutic relationship that makes good sense even today. They are:

1. The therapist must develop a warm, friendly relationship with the child, in which good rapport is established as soon as possible.

2. The therapist accepts the child exactly as he/she is.

3. The therapist establishes a feeling of permissiveness in the relationship so that the child feels free to express his/he feelings completely.

4. The therapist is alert to recognize the feelings the child is expressing and reflects those feeling back to him/her in such a manner that the child gains insight into his/her behavior.

5. The therapist maintains a deep respect for the child's ability to solve his own problems if given an opportunity to do so, The responsibility to make choices and to institute change is the child's.

6. The therapist does not attempt to direct the child's actions or conversations in any manner. The child leans the way; the therapist follows.

7. The therapist does not attempt to hurry the therapy along. It is a gradual process and is recognized as such by the therapist.

8. The therapist establishes only those limitations that are necessary to anchor the therapy to the world of reality and to make the child aware of her responsibility in the relationship.

(Axline, 1947, pp. 73-74).

References

        Ariel, S. (1992). Strategic family play therapy. New York: Wiley.
        Axline, V.M. (1969). Play Therapy. New York: Ballantine
        Axline, V.M. (1967). Dibs: In search of self; personality development in play therapy. New York: Ballantine Books.
        Azarnoff, P.A., & Flegal, S. (1975). A pediatric play program: Developing a therapeutic play program for children in medical settings. Springfield, IL: Thomas.
          Benson, M.J., Shindler-Zimmerman, T., & Martin, D. (1991). Accessing children's perceptions of their family: Circular questioning revisited. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 17, 363-372.
        Bradway, K. (1990). Sandplay studies: Origins, theories, and practice. Boston: Sigo Press.         Cattanach, A. (1992). Play therapy with abused children. Philadelphia, PA.: Jessica Kingsley.
        Chasin, R., & White, T.B. (1989). The child in family therapy: Guidelines for active engagement across the age span. In Lee Combrinck-Graham, (ed). Children in Family Context. New York: Guilford Press.
        Combrinck-Graham, L. (1989) (ed). Children in Family Context. New York: Guilford Press.
        Combrinck-Graham, L. (1989). Family models of childhood psychopathology. In Lee Combrinck-Graham, (ed). Children in Family Context. New York: Guilford Press.
        Combrinck-Graham, L. (1991). On technique with children in family therapy: How calculated should it be? Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 17, 373-377.
        Combrinck-Graham, L. (1986). Family treatment for childhood anxiety disorders. In J. Hansen (Ed.), The family therapy collection: Vol. 18. Treating young children in family therapy (pp. 85-95). Rockville: Aspen Publishers.
        Dennison, S.T., & Glassman, C.K. (1987). Activities for children in therapy: A guide for planning and facilitating therapy with troubled children. Springfield, IL.: Thomas.
        Edwards, J.K., & Reinke, L., (1990). Ten ways for a family therapist to generate failure while dealing with children and adolescents. Journal of Systemic and Strategic Therapy, 8, 31-33.
          Fine, P. (1982). Play and family therapy as core skills for child psychiatry: Some implications of Piaget's theory for integrations in training and practice. Child Psychiatry and Human Development, 13, 79-96.
        Jernberg, A.M. (1979). Theraplay: A new treatment using structured play for problem children and their families. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass Pub.
        Kissel, S. (1990). Play therapy: A strategic approach. Springfield, IL.: Thomas.
            Krall, V. (1989). A play therapy primer: Therapeutic approaches to children with emotional problems. New York: Human Science Press.
        Landreth, G.L. (1982). Play therapy: Dynamics of the process of counseling with children. Springfield, IL.: Thomas.
        McMahon, L. (1992). The handbook of play therapy. New York: Routledge.
        Moustakas, C., (1973). Children in Play Therapy. New York: Jason Aronson, Inc.
        Nemiroff, M.A., Annunziata, J., & Scott, M. (1990). A child's first book about play therapy. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
           O'Connor, K. J. (1991). The Play Therapy Primer: An integration of theories and techniques. New York: John Wiley & Sons.
        O'Connor, K.J. (1983). Handbook of play therapy. New York: Wiley.
        Rubin, P.B., DaCrosse, M.A., & Tregay, J. L. (1989). Play with them: Theraplay groups in the classroom: A technique for professionals who work with children. Springfield, IL.: Thomas.
        Ryce-Menuhin, J. (1991). Jungian sandplay: The wonderful therapy. New York: Routledge.
        Schaefer, C.E. (1993). The therapeutic powers of play. Northvale, N.J.: J. Aronson.
        Schaefer, C.E., & Reid, S.E. (1986) (ed.) Game Play: Therapeutic use of childhood games. New York: Wiley
        Schaefer, C.E. & O'Connor, K. J. (Eds), (1983). Handbook of Play Therapy. New York: John Wiley & Sons.
Singer, D.G. (1993). Playing for their lives: Helping troubled children through play therapy. New York: The Free Press.
        Wachtel, E.F. (1987). Family systems and the individual child. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 13, 15-25.
        Webb, N.B. (1991). Play therapy with children in crisis: A casebook for practitioners. New York: Guilford Press.
        White, M. (1985). Fear busting and monster taming: An approach to the fears of young children. Dulwich Centers Review, 29-34.
        White, M. (1984). Pseudo-encopresis: From avalanche to victory, from vicious to virtuous cycles. Family Systems Medicine, 2, 150-160.
        Winnicott, D.W. (1977). The Piggle: An account of the psychoanalytic treatment of a little girl. New York: International Universities Press, Inc.

Fall, Marijane; Balvanz, Jane; Johnson, Lynette; Nelson, Linda. (1999). A play therapy intervention and its relationship to self-efficacy and learning behaviors. Professional School Counseling. 2(3), 194-204.

Examined child-centered play therapy in schools and whether children exposed to a brief play therapy intervention exhibit improved classroom learning behaviors and beliefs about self-efficacy. 31 5-9 yr olds received the treatment of play therapy and 31 others served as controls. Ss were measured on 3 scales (a classroom observation, the Self-Efficacy Scale for Children, and the Conners Teacher Rating Scale

Holmberg, John R; Benedict, Helen E; Hynan, Linda S. (1998). Gender differences in children's play therapy themes: Comparisons of children with a history of attachment disturbance or expo sure to violence. International Journal of Play Therapy. 7(2), 67-92.

The use of thematic content of the play of children in therapy is a common aspect to play therapy and an integral part of Thematic Play Therapy. In this project, the researchers investigated the possibility that gender and trauma history influence the play themes of children in therapy. Using the Benedict Play Theme Analysis System (BPTAS), a study of themes demonstrated by 44 children (aged 39-63 mo) participating in therapy through Head Start was

conducted. The data were analyzed by comparing equally numbered groups of gender alone (male vs female), trauma history alone (attachment trauma vs attachment trauma plus exposure to violence in the history) and a combination of the possible influences (gender and trauma history). Results indicate that gender and trauma histories, as well as a possible interaction of the two

influences, impact the frequency and types of themes that children play in therapy.

Homeyer, Linda E; Rae, Amanda. (1998). Impact of semester length on play therapy training.

International Journal of Play Therapy. Vol 7(2), 1998, 37-49.

Abstract

Examined whether the length of semester impacts play therapy training for master's level graduate students. A total of 29 students participated. The various semesters studied were a 3-wk

mini-session, a regular 5-wk summer session, and a regular 15-wk semester. The Play Therapy Attitude-Knowledge-Skill Survey (PTAKSS) was used to collect pre- and post-training data. This

instrument measures three aspects of child-centered play therapy training: (a) the attitudes regarding essential beliefs and interaction patterns, (b) the knowledge of what should be known,

and (c) the level of confidence in applying play therapy skills. There was significant change within each group of students in all three aspects of training as computed with Paired

Differences t-test. Results of the analysis of covariance indicated no significant difference in any aspect of the child-centered play therapy training between semester

length.

Jackson, Yo. Applying APA ethical guidelines to individual play therapy with children.

International Journal of Play Therapy. Vol 7(2), 1998, 1-15.

Abstract

Explores the compatibility of the ethical guidelines of the American Psychology Association and play therapy practice. By applying the section of the ethical guidelines specific to therapeutic conduct, the author describes how these ethical guidelines relate to play therapist behavior, with specific focus on non-directive play therapy. Suggestions are made for creating a set of guidelines that may more appropriately outline the basic ethical conduct of play therapy

practice.

Walker, Susan C. Stories of two children: Making sense of children's therapeutic work.

Source Arts in Psychotherapy. Vol 25(4), 1998, 263-275.

Abstract

Explored the therapeutic work of 2 boys (aged 7 yrs 1 mo and 9 yrs 2 mo) attending play therapy. Both boys were dealing with the loss or death of a parent and were seen weekly, over a 6-mo period. Focus was on Ss' nonverbal (symbolic/metaphoric) sandplay, artwork, and clay work and on Ss' explanations of their therapeutic work. The play action for both children

progressed from chaos, death, destruction, and struggle through to restoration and adjustment. The play themes in session mirrored emotional and physical activities happening at home and at school. The Ss' progression in therapy supports the beliefs that with a safe and protected space, inner healing can unfold in such children. Both Ss needed direct communication about the issues concerning them to help in the integration process.

Fall, Marijane; Balvanz, Jane; Johnson, Lynette; Nelson, Linda. A play therapy intervention and its relationship to self-efficacy and learning behaviors. Professional School Counseling. Vol 2(3), Feb 1999, 194-204.

Abstract

Examined child-centered play therapy in schools and whether children exposed to a brief play

therapy intervention exhibit improved classroom learning behaviors and beliefs about self-efficacy. 31 5-9 yr olds received the treatment of play therapy and 31 others served as controls. Ss were measured on 3 scales (a classroom observation, the Self-Efficacy Scale for Children, and the Conners Teacher Rating Scale [C.K. Conners, 1986]). Counseling sessions were recorded to provide a 4th measure. Results indicate that children in this study whose coping skills

hindered personal learning can be assisted with 6 sessions of child-centered play therapy. Children's classroom behaviors improved for both control and experimental groups, more so for the experimental group.

Holmberg, John R; Benedict, Helen E; Hynan, Linda S. Gender differences in children's play

therapy themes: Comparisons of children with a history of attachment disturbance or exposure to violence. International Journal of Play Therapy. Vol 7(2), 1998, 67-92.

Abstract

The use of thematic content of the play of children in therapy is a common aspect to play

therapy and an integral part of Thematic Play Therapy. In this project, the researchers investigated the possibility that gender and trauma history influence the play themes of children in

therapy. Using the Benedict Play Theme Analysis System (BPTAS), a study of themes demonstrated by 44 children (aged 39-63 mo) participating in therapy through Head Start was

influences, impact the frequency and types of themes that children play in therapy.

Homeyer, Linda E; Rae, Amanda. Impact of semester length on play therapy training.

International Journal of Play Therapy. Vol 7(2), 1998, 37-49.

Examined whether the length of semester impacts play therapy training for master's level graduate students. A total of 29 students participated. The various semesters studied were a 3-wk

mini-session, a regular 5-wk summer session, and a regular 15-wk semester. The Play Therapy Attitude-Knowledge-Skill Survey (PTAKSS) was used to collect pre- and post-training data. This

instrument measures three aspects of child-centered play therapy training: (a) the attitudes regarding essential beliefs and interaction patterns, (b) the knowledge of what should be known,

and (c) the level of confidence in applying play therapy skills. There was significant change within each group of students in all three aspects of training as computed with Paired Differences t-test. Results of the analysis of covariance indicated no significant difference in any aspect of the child-centered play therapy training between semester length.

Walker, Susan C. Stories of two children: Making sense of children's therapeutic work.

Arts in Psychotherapy. Vol 25(4), 1998, 263-275.

Abstract

Kranz, Peter L; Kottman, Terry; Lund, Nick L. Play therapists' opinions concerning the education, training, and practice of play therapists. International Journal of Play Therapy. Vol

7(1), 1998, 73-87.

Abstract

Conducted a survey of 81 participants during a conference for play therapists concerning their opinions on the education, training, and practice of play therapists. In this manuscript, results of this study are summarized, the practical implications of the findings are discussed, and recommendations for professional growth and future research are made. Survey items are appended.

Homeyer, Linda E; Landreth, Garry L. Play therapy behaviors of sexually abused

children. International Journal of Play Therapy. Vol 7(1), 1998, 49-71.

Abstract

Examined the question of whether there are specific play therapy behaviors associated with children who have been sexually abused, and whether these behaviors differ by sex and age of the

children. A survey instrument was developed which listed 140 play therapy behaviors. 21 play therapists participated in a field test to establish external validity. 249 play therapists were also surveyed to identify professionals who provide play therapy. Analysis identified highly interrelated

play therapy behaviors of sexually abused girls and boys from ages 3-10 yrs. Suggested use of the play therapy behaviors include assessments to detect sexual abuse and recommendations for child placement and/or court testimony.

Phillips, Roger D; Landreth, Garry L. Play therapists on play therapy: II. Clinical issues in play

therapy. International Journal of Play Therapy. Vol 7(1), 1998, 1-24.

Abstract

Examined practices, issues, and perceptions of play therapy (PT) for children. Survey data were collected from 1,166 professionals practicing PT. Results show that according to this sample

of PT professionals, PT is appropriate for most children aged 3-11 yrs. Early and middle childhood is the developmental territory that encompassed most of the children seen in PT. The percentages of boys vs girls in PT was less extreme than previously reported, and there was little divergence in the criteria used to select PT as a child's treatment. The following disorders were cited as amenable to PT: physical/sexual abuse, depression/withdrawal, acting out/impulse control difficulties, and school adjustment/academic difficulties. PT was considered mostly or completely successful with 80% of children in treatment. There were few significant differences between male

and female therapists.

Meschiany, Alberto; Krontal, Sharon. Toys and games in play therapy. Israel Journal of Psychiatry & Related Sciences. Vol 35(1), 1998, 31-37.

Abstract

Discusses the difference between play therapy with toys and play therapy with games from a psychodynamic point of view. Toys are regarded as offering the child an opportunity to develop a variety of transference reactions, while games, because of their inherent competitive characteristic, restrain the scope of possible transference reactions. It is asserted that therapists should consider these eventualities when choosing which games or toys are to be available in the therapy room. This choice might determine, in advance, the initial characteristics of the patient's transference.

Clawson, Lance D. Individual psychotherapy and the use of play with children.

Ghuman, Harinder S. (Ed); Sarles, Richard M. (Ed); et al. (1998). Handbook of child and adolescent outpatient, day treatment and community psychiatry. (pp. 245-257). Philadelphia, PA, USA: Brunner/Mazel, Inc. xvii, 393 pp.

Abstract

(from the chapter) Play therapy may take many forms and utilizes a number of various play and

interpretive techniques. Some forms can be useful with certain types of children, for example, certain games or approaches may be used with specific types of psychopathology, or the play may be varied to fit with a particular therapist's approach and philosophy of treatment. This chapter reviews psychodynamically-oriented individual therapy in the ambulatory setting, and the use of

play in this form of treatment. Topics discussed include historical notes, therapeutic action, indications for the use of play therapy, goals and length of treatment, the process of play therapy, the environment, and adaptations and uses of individual play.

Kranz, Peter L; Kottman, Terry; Lund, Nick L. Play therapists' opinions concerning the education, training, and practice of play therapists. International Journal of Play Therapy. Vol

7(1), 1998, 73-87.

Abstract

Homeyer, Linda E; Landreth, Garry L. Play therapy behaviors of sexually abused

children. International Journal of Play Therapy. Vol 7(1), 1998, 49-71.

Abstract

Examined the question of whether there are specific play therapy behaviors associated with children who have been sexually abused, and whether these behaviors differ by sex and age of the

Phillips, Roger D; Landreth, Garry L. Play therapists on play therapy: II. Clinical issues in play

therapy. International Journal of Play Therapy. Vol 7(1), 1998, 1-24.

Abstract

Examined practices, issues, and perceptions of play therapy (PT) for children. Survey data were collected from 1,166 professionals practicing PT. Results show that according to this sample of PT professionals, PT is appropriate for most children aged 3-11 yrs. Early and middle childhood is the developmental territory that encompassed most of the children seen in PT. The percentages of boys vs girls in PT was less extreme than previously reported, and there was little divergence in the criteria used to select PT as a child's treatment. The following disorders were cited as amenable to PT: physical/sexual abuse, depression/withdrawal, acting out/impulse control difficulties, and school adjustment/academic difficulties. PT was considered mostly or completely successful with 80% of children in treatment. There were few significant differences between male

and female therapists.

Meschiany, Alberto; Krontal, Sharon. Toys and games in play therapy. Israel Journal of Psychiatry & Related Sciences. Vol 35(1), 1998, 31-37.

Abstract

patient's transference.

Schatz, Irene Molner. Meeting Noodle Face Noah: Child Oriented Family Therapy.

Journal of Family Psychotherapy. Vol 9(2), 1998, 1-13.

Abstract

Family therapy is a modality that embraces the family rather than the individual. Working with children in the context of family therapy sessions offers a therapist a unique opportunity to

learn about a family. Through play therapy techniques, a family's interactional patterns can be illuminated and new meanings can be generated. This paper offers suggestions about the way

play therapy techniques were used in family therapy contexts and highlights three specific

interventions: therapeutic rituals, story-telling, and the use of puppetry. Included in the discussion are case examples that illustrate the use of each specific technique. The integration of family therapy with play therapy offers a natural union when used in a systemic context.

Carter, Richard B; Mason, Perry S. The selection and use of puppets in counseling.

Professional School Counseling. Vol 1(5), Jun 1998, 50-53.

Abstract

Describes various therapeutic applications and techniques of puppetry with children and considers factors affecting the selection of puppets. Some advantages of puppet use in counseling are listed. Guidelines for the consideration of hand puppets, marionettes, Muppets, and ventriloquism dolls are outlined, as are some skills that might be employed in their use. Advises

that counselors of young children must risk meeting their clients face to face in order to become effective, trusted listeners. Puppets are said to be possible keys to allowing access to the inner world of a child client.

Kernberg, Paulina F; Chazan, Saralea E; Normandin, Lina. The Children's Play Therapy Instrument (CPTI): Description, development, and reliability studies. Journal of Psychotherapy Practice & Research. Vol 7(3), Sum 1998, 196-207.

Abstract

Describes the development and reliability studies of the CPTI. The CPTI is a new instrument to examine a child's play activity in individual psychotherapy. Three independent raters used the

CPTI to rate 8 videotaped play therapy vignettes with 5-10 yr old clients. Results were compared with the authors' consensual scores from a preliminary study. Generally good to excellent levels of interrater reliability were obtained for the independent raters on intraclass correlation coefficients for ordinal categories of the CPTI. Likewise, kappa levels were acceptable to excellent for nominal categories of the scale. The CPTI holds promise to become a reliable measure of play activity in child psychotherapy. Further research is needed to assess discriminant validity of the CPTI for use as a diagnostic tool and as a measure of process and outcome.

Tennessen, Jane; Strand, David. A comparative analysis of directed sandplay therapy and principles of Ericksonian psychology. Arts in Psychotherapy. Vol 25(2), 1998, 109-114.

Abstract

Discusses directive sandplay therapy and principles of Ericksonian psychology as a useful modality for helping individuals to change destructive and limited patterns of behavior, and

recover useful resources. In fact, it appears to be an ideal vehicle for clients who have been disempowered, traumatized, and exposed to overwhelming affect. Directed sandplay therapy provides a medium in which clients are able to depict their experience while still retaining some distance and control over it. This form of sandplay also provides an opportunity to bypass verbal

modalities, if necessary, and use symbolic and non-verbal modalities that may prove more effective with traumatized patients. Finally, directed sandplay therapy promotes a positive

message of change being potentially immediate and within the patient's grasp. Ericksonian principles provide an excellent foundation from which to conceptualize this directed form of sandplay therapy. Despite the apparent operational differences, the similarities between the two approaches are quite striking. Philosophically, both approaches tend to empower active and internally-generated changes in individuals. They both portray the unconscious mind as a powerful resource and make use of it in the therapeutic setting.

Frankel, Jay B. The play's the thing: How the essential processes of therapy are seen most clearly in child therapy. Psychoanalytic Dialogues. Vol 8(1), 1998, 149-182.

Abstract

Analytic child therapy techniques developed as modifications of techniques from adult psychoanalysis. Child therapy continues to be regarded as an adaptation of adult analysis and to give a central place to the methods and conditions of adult analysis, such as interpretation, in its understanding of how therapy heals. The author proposes that child therapy is not a modified

form of therapy and that the essential processes of therapy are fully present in child therapy.

J. B. Frankel suggests 2 interrelated processes as the essential ones in all analytic therapy. The 1st process is play; several interrelated aspects of play are examined, specifically as they occur in child therapy. These aspects include the emergence and integration of dissociated self-states,

symbolization, and recognition. The 2nd process proposed is the renegotiation of self-other relationships through action. This renegotiation is what can help patients become able to play in

therapy when they have difficulty doing so. The role of talking in an action therapy is considered. The dimensions of mutuality in the relationship between child and therapist, including mutual influence and regulation, mutual recognition, and mutual regression are also explored.

Kao, Shu-Chen; Landreth, Garry L. Evaluating the impact of child-centered play

therapy training. International Journal of Play Therapy. Vol 6(2), 1997, 1-20.

Abstract

trainees, and (5) reducing intellectual efficiency in trainees. Results of the analyses of covariance reveal that students in the experimental group demonstrated a significant improvement in their positive attitudes and beliefs toward children, play therapy knowledge, confidence in applying play

therapy skills and a significant reduction in their dominance tendency and intellectual efficiency.

Frankel, Jay B. The play's the thing: How the essential processes of therapy are seen most clearly in child therapy. Psychoanalytic Dialogues. Vol 8(1), 1998, 149-182.

Abstract

form of therapy and that the essential processes of therapy are fully present in child therapy.

symbolization, and recognition. The 2nd process proposed is the renegotiation of self-other relationships through action. This renegotiation is what can help patients become able to play in

Kao, Shu-Chen; Landreth, Garry L. Evaluating the impact of child-centered play therapy training. International Journal of Play Therapy. Vol 6(2), 1997, 1-20.

Abstract

The researchers designed this study to determine the effects of a comprehensive child-centered play therapy training course for beginning play therapy graduate students in (1) improving positive attitudes and beliefs toward children, (2) improving play therapy knowledge, (3) improving confidence in applying play therapy skills, (4) reducing dominance tendencies in trainees, and (5) reducing intellectual efficiency in trainees. Results of the analyses of covariance reveal that students in the experimental group demonstrated a significant improvement in their positive attitudes and beliefs toward children, play therapy knowledge, confidence in applying play

therapy skills and a significant reduction in their dominance tendency and intellectual efficiency.

Kaduson, Heidi G. (Ed); Schaefer, Charles E. (Ed). 101 favorite play therapy techniques.

Northvale, NJ, USA: Jason Aronson, Inc. 1997, xvi, 401.

Abstract

(from the jacket) Building on children's natural inclinations to pretend and re-enact, play therapy is widely used in the treatment of psychological problems in childhood. This book incorporates

methods developed to elicit the best responses from children by therapists representing cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and other orientations, and selected for their practicality, specificity, and originality. Arranged for easy reference, each bearing a succinct description and targeted application, the interventions illustrated--including fantasy, storytelling, expressive

arts, game play, puppet play, play toys and objects, and group play--have been used with success to address such common problems as low self-esteem and unresolved fear and anger as well as more serious difficulties arising from loss, abuse, and sexual trauma.

Moustakas, Clark E. Relationship play therapy. Northvale, NJ, USA: Jason Aronson, Inc. 1997, xi, 219.

Abstract

(from the preface) Relationship Play Therapy presents the experiences of children in therapy--children generally happy and secure, and children coping with disturbing problems in relationships within their family and with other significant people in their everyday world. The book delineates applications of play therapy principles, values, and methods that are used in specialized play situations to help children express tensions and frustrations and become

freer and more alive. It presents examples of children suddenly or temporarily disturbed in their family life, as well as more seriously disturbed children in play therapy. The book also contains transcriptions of child-therapist communications in play therapy. These verbatim stories and

the discussions that follow provide readers with an opportunity to understand children and their problems, and to respond more effectively.

Landreth, Garry L; Wright, Catherine S. Limit setting practices of play therapists in training and experienced play therapists. International Journal of Play Therapy. Vol 6(1), 1997, 41-62.

Abstract

This study evaluated the effect of play therapy training on graduate students' limit-setting choices in play therapy and compared their reported choice of limits with the reported choice of limits of experienced play therapists. The results indicated a significant difference between pre-training and posttraining limit-setting choices of graduate students, with more limits being chosen after training. The limits selected by students after play therapy training were similar to those chosen by experienced therapists in past studies. After training, students selected limits most frequently in the areas of physical aggression against the therapist, physical aggression against equipment, and on behaviors which endangered the child's health and safety. After training, students chose the fewest limits in the area of socially unacceptable behavior, particularly in the expression of obscenity in the playroom.

Fall, Marijane. From stages to categories: A study of children's play in play therapy sessions.

International Journal of Play Therapy. Vol 6(1), 1997, 1-21.

Abstract

To examine the nature of children's play in play therapy sessions, 186 tape recorded interviews of play therapy sessions with 31 elementary school children (aged 5-9 yrs) were analyzed. Results show 4 categories that are descriptive of children's play. At some time during therapy sessions, all children played in ways characterized by Categories 1 and 2, "connecting" and "safe play." Some children's play also reflected Categories 3 and 4, "unsafe play" and "resolution." Implications for clinical practice are discussed.

Donovan, Denis M. The play therapy controversy. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Vol 36(10), Oct 1997, 1322-1323.

Abstract

psyche of children to an automobile engine and the work with children to a surgeon's operations on an anesthetized patient. The author addresses several of Ablon's criticisms including Ablon's claim that Donovan criticizes but does not contribute. The author concludes by reiterating his concern over the absence of realism and hard-nosed critical thinking in child psychiatry that

permits the publication of confused and apologetic admissions of therapeutic importance while failing to notice for years or even decades the "state-of-the-art" thinking in the field is strikingly divorced from a real-world understanding of plain old kids.

O'Connor, Kevin J. (Ed); Braverman, Lisa Mages (Ed).Play therapy theory and practice: A

comparative presentation. New York, NY, USA: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1997, xiii, 416.

Abstract

details provided in the case, including objective and projective test results, play therapists were asked how they would characterize Jason's problem and how they would apply their particular brand of play therapy in a clinical intervention with Jason. In each chapter, an author (or authors) describes a particular theoretical model of play therapy and explains how he or she would apply it to Jason's case. The goal is to provide readers with an opportunity to gain a practical, hands-on understanding of how current approaches to play therapy work, as well as the underlying principles upon which they are based. (from the preface) This book is intended for psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nurses, and counselors at all levels of training and

experience.

Freeman, Jennifer C; Epston, David; Lobovits, Dean. Playful approaches to serious problems: Narrative
therapy with children and their families. New York, NY, USA: W. W. Norton & Co, Inc. 1997, xvii, 321.

Abstract

(from the jacket) What might it mean for us as helpers of families and children to be light on our toes when confronting weighty problems? Is it possible to play and to maintain a sense of humor while dealing effectively with distressing, frightening, or perilous situations? How can we invite children and family members to bring forth their imaginative and creative resources while coming to grips with the sociocultural complexity of problems? The authors elucidate a basic theory of collaborative narrative
play that allows new choices and stories of hope and change to emerge. They encourage appreciation for ways of communicating that appeal to children. Family members discover how to use play to bolster the child's attempts to "grow up and shrink the problem down," "get the better of Trouble," or "catch Sneaky Poo before it sneaks out." Case vignettes and 5
extended case stories are included. This book is intended for therapists, parents, teachers, or anyone helping children and families.

Kottman, Terry. Building a family: Play therapy with adopted children and their parents. Kaduson, Heidi Gerard (Ed); Cangelosi, Donna M. (Ed); et al. (1997). The playing cure: Individualized play therapy for specific childhood problems. Child
therapy series. (pp. 337-369). Northvale, NJ, USA: Jason Aronson, Inc. xiii, 383 pp.

Abstract

(from the chapter) although most adopted children have positive outlooks and are mentally healthy, this group has disproportionately high rates of emotional, mental health, and educational problems / there is strong support for the idea that adopted children and their family struggle with 8 key issues: entitlement, claiming, unmatched expectations, shifts in the family
system, grief and loss, attachment, identity formation, and power and control / play therapy--especially play therapy that involves the entire family--seems to be an ideal intervention strategy for helping adopted children and their families to cope with these issues / all 14 of the therapeutic factors of play delineated by J. Schaefer (1993) apply to this population, which would make play therapy the treatment of choice for young children who have been adopted, especially those who were adopted after infancy / presents the case illustration of a 5-yr-old adopted girl, her adoptive parents and 7-yr-old adopted brother ((c) 1997 APA/PsycINFO, all rights reserved)

Donovan, Denis M. The play therapy controversy. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Vol 36(10), Oct 1997, 1322-1323.

Abstract

Responds to S. L. Ablon's (1997) reply to D. M. Donovan's (see record 84-32016) comments on S. L. Ablon's (see record 84-04759) article regarding the therapeutic action of play. The author suggests that Ablon gets it backwards when he suggests that Donovan compared the mind and psyche of children to an automobile engine and the work with children to a surgeon's operations on an anesthetized patient. The author addresses several of Ablon's criticisms including Ablon's claim that Donovan criticizes but does not contribute. The author concludes by reiterating his concern over the absence of realism and hard-nosed critical thinking in child psychiatry that permits the publication of confused and apologetic admissions of therapeutic
importance while failing to notice for years or even decades the "state-of-the-art" thinking in the field is strikingly divorced from a real-world understanding of plain old kids.

O'Connor, Kevin J. (Ed); Braverman, Lisa Mages (Ed). Play therapy theory and practice: A comparative presentation.
Source New York, NY, USA: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1997, xiii, 416.

Abstract

(from the jacket) This book presents the case of Jason L., a 7-yr-old boy given to fits of explosive anger, unresponsive to attempts at discipline, and recently arrested for starting a trash fire. He was referred to treatment by Child Protective Services following a report from Jason's teacher that there was reason to believe that his mother was physically abusing him. Based on
details provided in the case, including objective and projective test results, play therapists were asked how they would
characterize Jason's problem and how they would apply their particular brand of play therapy in a clinical intervention
with Jason. In each chapter, an author (or authors) describes a particular theoretical model of play therapy and explains how he
or she would apply it to Jason's case. The goal is to provide readers with an opportunity to gain a practical, hands-on understanding of how current approaches to play therapy work, as well as the underlying principles upon which they are based.
(from the preface) This book is intended for psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nurses, and counselors at all levels of training and experience.

Freeman, Jennifer C; Epston, David; Lobovits, Dean. Playful approaches to serious problems: Narrative therapy with children and their families. Source
New York, NY, USA: W. W. Norton & Co, Inc. 1997, xvii, 321.
Abstract
(from the jacket) What might it mean for us as helpers of families and
children to be light on our toes when confronting weighty problems? Is it
possible to play and to maintain a sense of humor while
dealing effectively with distressing, frightening, or perilous situations?
How can we invite children and family members to bring forth their
imaginative and creative resources while coming to grips with the
sociocultural complexity of problems?
The authors elucidate a basic theory of collaborative narrative
play that allows new choices and stories of hope and change
to emerge. They encourage appreciation for ways of communicating that appeal
to children.
Family members discover how to use play to bolster the
child's attempts to "grow up and shrink the problem down," "get the better of
Trouble," or "catch Sneaky Poo before it sneaks out." Case vignettes and 5
extended case stories are included.
This book is intended for therapists, parents, teachers, or anyone helping
children and families. ((c) 1997 APA/PsycINFO, all rights reserved)

<4>
Accession Number
Chapter: 1997-08370-013.
Author
Kottman, Terry.
Chapter Title
Building a family: Play therapy with
adopted children and their parents.
Source
Kaduson, Heidi Gerard (Ed); Cangelosi, Donna M. (Ed); et al. (1997). The
playing cure: Individualized play
therapy for specific childhood problems. Child
therapy series. (pp. 337-369). Northvale, NJ, USA: Jason
Aronson, Inc. xiii, 383 pp.
Abstract
(from the chapter) although most adopted children have positive outlooks and
are mentally healthy, this group has disproportionately high rates of
emotional, mental health, and educational problems / there is strong support
for the idea that adopted children and their family struggle with 8 key
issues: entitlement, claiming, unmatched expectations, shifts in the family
system, grief and loss, attachment, identity formation, and power and control
/ play therapy--especially
play therapy that involves the entire
family--seems to be an ideal intervention strategy for helping adopted
children and their families to cope with these issues / all 14 of the
therapeutic factors of play delineated by J. Schaefer (1993)
apply to this population, which would make play
therapy the treatment of choice for young children who have
been adopted, especially those who were adopted after infancy / presents the
case illustration of a 5-yr-old adopted girl, her adoptive parents and
7-yr-old adopted brother ((c) 1997 APA/PsycINFO, all rights reserved)

<5>
Accession Number
Chapter: 1997-08370-009.
Author
Cabe, Neil.
Chapter Title
Conduct disorder: Grounded play therapy.
Source
Haduson, Heidi Gerard (Ed); Cangelosi, Donna M. (Ed); et al. (1997). The
playing cure: Individualized play
therapy for specific childhood problems. Child
therapy series. (pp. 229-253). Northvale, NJ, USA: Jason
Aronson, Inc. xiii, 383 pp.
Abstract
(from the chapter) discusses a play therapy
approach, the grounded play therapy
processing approach, for breaking the cycle of conduct disorder and
oppositional defiant behavior / present play
therapy suggestions appropriate to each stage of the
grounded play therapy process: homeostasis,
animation, trust, vesting, potency, preservation / present the case
illustration of a 13-yr-old African American male ((c) 1997 APA/PsycINFO, all
rights reserved)

<6>
Accession Number
Chapter: 1997-08370-008.
Author
Kaduson, Heidi Gerard.
Chapter Title
Play therapy for children with
attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Source
Kaduson, Heidi Gerard (Ed); Cangelosi, Donna M. (Ed); et al. (1997). The
playing cure: Individualized play
therapy for specific childhood problems. Child
therapy series. (pp. 197-227). Northvale, NJ, USA: Jason
Aronson, Inc. xiii, 383 pp.
Abstract
(from the chapter) discusses identifying, understanding, and remediating
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children through a
multimodal approach / inherent in this approach is play
therapy / presented a case illustration of a 7-yr-old-boy
common characteristics / components [behavioral manifestations, social
functioning, academics, emotional and physical characteristics] / treatment
[medication therapy, behavioral approach, cognitive
approaches, cognitive-behavioral approaches, play
therapy approach] / the ideal play
therapist / therapeutic powers of play [communication,
emotional regulation, relationship enhancement, stress management, ego
boosting, cognitive problem-solving, preparation for life] / theoretical
approach [to increase on-task behavior, enhancing verbalization of feelings,
to increase self-control] ((c) 1997 APA/PsycINFO, all rights reserved)

<7>
Accession Number
Chapter: 1997-08370-007.
Author
Hall, Pamela E.
Chapter Title
Play therapy with sexually abused children.
Source
Kaduson, Heidi Gerard (Ed); Cangelosi, Donna M. (Ed); et al. (1997). The
playing cure: Individualized play
therapy for specific childhood problems. Child
therapy series. (pp. 171-194). Northvale, NJ, USA: Jason
Aronson, Inc. xiii, 383 pp.
Abstract
(from the chapter) describes the detailed and intricate therapist-client
interplay required when working with early school-age
children who have been sexually abused / play
therapy is a curative method by which to address the
traumatized child / the decision to use play
therapy techniques and employ C. E. Schaefer's (1993) 14
therapeutic factors of play will ensure that the major
issues regarding the processing of trauma are addressed / presents the case
illustration of a 6-yr-old girl ((c) 1997 APA/PsycINFO, all rights reserved)

<1>
Accession Number
Chapter: 1997-08370-009.
Author
Cabe, Neil.
Chapter Title
Conduct disorder: Grounded play therapy.
Source
Kaduson, Heidi Gerard (Ed); Cangelosi, Donna M. (Ed); et al. (1997). The
playing cure: Individualized play
therapy for specific childhood problems. Child
therapy series. (pp. 229-253). Northvale, NJ, USA: Jason
Aronson, Inc. xiii, 383 pp.
Abstract
(from the chapter) discusses a play therapy
approach, the grounded play therapy
processing approach, for breaking the cycle of conduct disorder and
oppositional defiant behavior / present play
therapy suggestions appropriate to each stage of the
grounded play therapy process: homeostasis,
animation, trust, vesting, potency, preservation / present the case
illustration of a 13-yr-old African American male ((c) 1997 APA/PsycINFO, all
rights reserved)

<2>
Accession Number
Chapter: 1997-08370-008.
Author
Kaduson, Heidi Gerard.
Chapter Title
Play therapy for children with
attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Source
Kaduson, Heidi Gerard (Ed); Cangelosi, Donna M. (Ed); et al. (1997). The
playing cure: Individualized play
therapy for specific childhood problems. Child
therapy series. (pp. 197-227). Northvale, NJ, USA: Jason
Aronson, Inc. xiii, 383 pp.
Abstract
(from the chapter) discusses identifying, understanding, and remediating
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children through a
multimodal approach / inherent in this approach is play
therapy / presented a case illustration of a 7-yr-old-boy
common characteristics / components [behavioral manifestations, social
functioning, academics, emotional and physical characteristics] / treatment
[medication therapy, behavioral approach, cognitive
approaches, cognitive-behavioral approaches, play
therapy approach] / the ideal play
therapist / therapeutic powers of play [communication,
emotional regulation, relationship enhancement, stress management, ego
boosting, cognitive problem-solving, preparation for life] / theoretical
approach [to increase on-task behavior, enhancing verbalization of feelings,
to increase self-control] ((c) 1997 APA/PsycINFO, all rights reserved)

<3>
Accession Number
Chapter: 1997-08370-007.
Author
Hall, Pamela E.
Chapter Title
Play therapy with sexually abused children.
Source
Kaduson, Heidi Gerard (Ed); Cangelosi, Donna M. (Ed); et al. (1997). The
playing cure: Individualized play
therapy for specific childhood problems. Child
therapy series. (pp. 171-194). Northvale, NJ, USA: Jason
Aronson, Inc. xiii, 383 pp.
Abstract
(from the chapter) describes the detailed and intricate therapist-client
interplay required when working with early school-age
children who have been sexually abused / play
therapy is a curative method by which to address the
traumatized child / the decision to use play
therapy techniques and employ C. E. Schaefer's (1993) 14
therapeutic factors of play will ensure that the major
issues regarding the processing of trauma are addressed / presents the case
illustration of a 6-yr-old girl ((c) 1997 APA/PsycINFO, all rights reserved)

<4>
Accession Number
Chapter: 1997-08370-002.
Author
Lyness-Richard, D'Arcy.
Chapter Title
Play therapy for children with fears and
phobias.
Source
Kaduson, Heidi Gerard (Ed); Cangelosi, Donna M. (Ed); et al. (1997). The
playing cure: Individualized play
therapy for specific childhood problems. Child
therapy series. (pp. 29-59). Northvale, NJ, USA: Jason
Aronson, Inc. xiii, 383 pp.
Abstract
(from the chapter) play therapy is the
application of the special properties of play in the service
of healing the child's psychological problems / because one of the central
functions of play is to help the child master anxiety,
play therapy is particularly well suited to
the treatment of the child with fears and phobias / many children who come to
a therapist have fears or phobias as a presenting symptom / children who are
referred for therapy with other primary problems may have
fears or phobias that need to be addressed during treatment /
play therapy techniques may be based on
behavioral, psychodynamic, or client-centered approaches, and techniques may
be liberally mixed within the therapy of a given child /
case illustrations of play therapy with
children ages 6 to 11 yrs are included ((c) 1997 APA/PsycINFO, all rights
reserved)

<5>
ccession Number
Chapter: 1997-08370-001.
Author
Briesmeister, James M.
Chapter Title
Play therapy with depressed children.
Source
Kaduson, Heidi Gerard (Ed); Cangelosi, Donna M. (Ed); et al. (1997). The
playing cure: Individualized play
therapy for specific childhood problems. Child
therapy series. (pp. 3-28). Northvale, NJ, USA: Jason
Aronson, Inc. xiii, 383 pp.
Abstract
(from the chapter) reviews some of the major historical trends regarding the
concept and existence of childhood depression / any symptomatic disorder of
childhood must be assessed, understood, and interpreted against the backdrop
of developmental process / the symptoms of depression are experienced and
expressed via age-appropriate cognitions, behaviors, affective tones,
motivational forces, social and interrelational patterns, and coping
strategies / the therapeutic model discussed integrates the principles of
cognitive-behavior theory within a play
therapy structure and format / family intervention is
recommended as an invaluable adjunct to play
therapy / a case illustration of play
therapy with a depressed 7-yr-old boy is presented ((c) 1997
APA/PsycINFO, all rights reserved)

<6>
Accession Number
Edited Book: 1997-08370-000.
Author
Kaduson, Heidi Gerard (Ed); Cangelosi, Donna M. (Ed); Schaefer, Charles E.
(Ed).
Title
The playing cure: Individualized play
therapy for specific childhood problems.
Book Series Title
Child therapy series.
Source
Northvale, NJ, USA: Jason Aronson, Inc. 1997, xiii, 383.
Abstract
(from the jacket) "The Playing Cure" focuses on the curative
powers of play and the application of play
therapy to a wide variety of psychological problems. The
authors present a prescriptive approach built on years of research.
Many of the therapeutic factors of play originated in
specific schools of thought. However, the authors discuss how they can be
integrated into the most effective treatment. ((c) 1997 APA/PsycINFO, all
rights reserved)

<7>
Accession Number
Journal Article: 1997-07908-004.
Author
Carmichael, Karla D; Lane, Kelly S.
Title
Play therapy with children of alcoholics.
Source
Alcoholism Treatment Quarterly. Vol 15(1), 1997, 43-51.
Abstract
Describes play therapy programs and gives
case reports of Children of Alcoholics (CA). Through play
therapy, the counselor assists the children in achieving
therapeutic goals: (1) overcoming a sense of guilt and shame, (2) resolving
issues surrounding trust and control, (3) encouraging children to talk about
the alcoholism in their family, (4) learning safe ways to counteract the
denial and rigidity of the alcoholic family, and (5) assisting children in
finding positive ways to express emotions. While play
therapy can help children reach these therapeutic goals, the
counselor is urged to cultural diversity, as not all children may be
candidates for therapies that require disclosure of family "secrets."
Children from alcoholic families where the alcohol abuse cannot be discussed
may benefit from play therapy that focuses
on the child's self-esteem without probing and requiring disclosure
concerning the alcohol abuse. ((c) 1997 APA/PsycINFO, all rights reserved)

<8>
Accession Number
Journal Article: 1997-04517-002.
Author
Markman, Henry.
Title
Play in the treatment of adolescents.
Source
Psychoanalytic Quarterly. Vol 66(2), Apr 1997, 190-218.
Abstract
Proposes a treatment process with adolescents which places interactive
play at the center. The adolescent plays by
creating a highly charged interpersonal drama with the analyst to work out
specific developmental conflicts. These conflicts involve struggles for
greater autonomy and the formation of a solid sense of identity in the face
of regressive pulls. The analyst unwittingly is taken up in the
play and uses his or her sense of involvement as material
for interpretation to further the play or resolve periods of
strain when play falters. ((c) 1997 APA/PsycINFO, all rights
reserved)

<1>
ccession Number
Journal Article: 1986-17862-001.
Author
Phillips, Roger D.
Title
Whistling in the dark? A review of play
therapy research.
Source
Psychotherapy. Vol 22(4), Win 1985, 752-760.
Abstract
Reviews the empirical research on process and outcome in
play therapy. Attempts to measure the
play therapy process and more specific
process findings are considered. Outcome research is
examined within particular clinical populations or problems.
Play therapy with cognitive)ehavioral
components is noted as a promising direction, based on the work conducted so
far. (65 ref) ((c) 1997 APA/PsycINFO, all rights reserved)