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tijdschriftpersoonsgerichte
experiëntiële
psychotherapie
Process-oriented
Existential
Interactional
Integrative

Interactive play therapy and special education. A theory-based concept 'interactive resonance' for communication through play and toys

ARTICLEBehr, Michael - 45–2 (2007)

SUMMARY

On the base of the theories on the self of Daniel Stern, and attachment theory, we can expand and enrich the client-centered theories on interaction and the way we see each other with a new concept for engaging in human relations through nonverbal communication; the related practice will be discussed with numerous examples from therapeutic sessions with children. This concept also supports the client-centered theories on personality and the idea of 'empathic intervention'. It suggests how empathy and authenticity can take shape in nonverbal play-interactions with children and youngsters. This new action related concept leads to the definition of 'interactive resonance'. Examples and directions for practical use will show how interactive resonance can take place in children's building game and role-play.

KEYWORDS

play therapy, pediatric psychotherapy, client-centered psychotherapy, self psychology, interpersonal interaction, attachment behavior, nonverbal communication

The tPeP (Journal Person-centered experiential Psychotherapy) is the scientific journal for Dutch and Flemish psychotherapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists, that work from, or are interested in a client-centered perspective.