The benefits of child-centered play therapy and filial therapy for pre-school-aged children with reactive attachment disorder and their famiies

Author

Andrea S. White, Smith College

Publication Date

2014

Document Type

Masters Thesis

Department

School for Social Work

Keywords

Attachment disorder in children-Treatment, Play therapy, Family psychotherapy, Parent and child, Reactive attachment disorder, Non-directive child-centered play therapy, Filial therapy

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate, from a theoretical perspective, the best treatment approach for preschool-aged children with Reactive Attachment Disorder. The challenges and needs of these children can be extensive, and the search for effective treatment is ongoing. Two specific questions of focus were: How are the theories behind Non-Directive Play Therapy/Child-Centered Play Therapy and Filial Therapy useful in conceptualizing the experience of therapy for a child with attachment disorder? And, how could these treatments be used to benefit children with attachment disorders and their families? The research for this paper involved a literature review of peer-reviewed articles on Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) and treatment, original sources describing Attachment Theory, Non-Directive Play Therapy and Filial Therapy, and the DSM-IV-TR and ICD-10. Both types of therapy were found to be helpful for children with RAD because they create a therapeutic relationship that encourages secure attachment, allow children to process trauma as needed, and provide conditions which help children build affect-regulation, improve self-concept and regain healthy development. Filial Therapy showed an additional benefit in training parents to provide ideal caregiving conditions. A comprehensive assessment and treatment program, utilizing aspects of both treatment types was suggested for children with Reactive Attachment Disorder and their families; it includes the potential for use in clinical settings, child welfare investigations and with foster and adoptive families.

Language

English

Comments

i, 188 pages. Thesis (M.S.W.)-Smith College School for Social Work, 2014. Includes bibliographical references (pages 173-188)

Recommended Citation

White, Andrea S., "The benefits of child-centered play therapy and filial therapy for pre-school-aged children with reactive attachment disorder and their famiies" (2014). Masters Thesis, Smith College, Northampton, MA.
https://scholarworks.smith.edu/theses/846