THE EXPERIENCE OF USING FILIAL PLAY THERAPY FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF ADOPTIVE PARENTS: A CASE STUDY OF FAMILY ADJUSTMENT

ECU Author/Contributor (non-ECU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)

Georgeanna Chizk (Creator)

Institution

East Carolina University (ECU )

Web Site: http://www.ecu.edu/lib/

Abstract: Adoption can consist of both positive experiences as well as challenges in parent-child relationship development. Research suggests that filial play therapy is helpful in fostering a secure attachment relationship. Given its potential role in establishing a parent-child bond , filial play therapy may an option for adoptive parents in building meaningful connection and a secure parent-child attachment relationship. The purpose of this study was to explore adoptive parents' experiences with using post-adoption filial play therapy in an effort to investigate the perceived usefulness of filial play therapy in improving attachment relationships between parent and child. Mixed-methods multiple case study methodology of three cases was used to explore adoptive parents' experiences with and perceptions about filial play therapy. Cross-case analysis revealed that adoptive families' experiences were highly complex. Parents had positive experiences using filial play therapy with their child and reported the development of emotional connection and a decrease frequency of adverse child behaviors. Given the positive outcomes of using filial play therapy in the adoption experience , parents suggested that more mental health providers be trained in filial play therapy to meet parent-child relationship needs within adoptive families.

Additional Information

Publication

Thesis

Language: English

Date: 2018

Keywords

case study, family adjustment

Subjects

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