Group play therapy. Using an interaction model with delayed regressed behaviors in children

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Child Therapy
• Group Dynamics

Background:

• Individual play therapy is a widely used therapeutic approach.
• Existing literature often lacks a structured model for group play therapy.
• Therapists require practical guidance for implementing group play therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of individual play therapy.
• To introduce a novel interactional model for group play therapy.
• To offer practical guidelines and interventions for novice group play therapists.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of individual play therapy principles.
• Conceptualization and introduction of the interactional group play therapy model.
• Description of a case example illustrating the model's application.
• Suggestion of specific interventions for common group play therapy challenges.

Main Results:

• The article establishes a connection between individual and group play therapy concepts.
• A new interactional model for group play therapy is presented.
• Practical guidelines for therapists are outlined.
• Specific interventions are provided for addressing issues within group play therapy.

Conclusions:

• The interactional model offers a structured framework for group play therapy.
• The guidelines and interventions support the development of beginning play therapists.
• This approach facilitates the application of play therapy in group settings.