Graduate Program
Clinical Psychology
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Semester of Degree Completion
2002
Thesis Director
Keith M. Wilson
Abstract
The paper focuses on the history, research and future directions of non-directive play therapy. According to the history of play therapy, the first person to advocate studying the play of children in order to understand and educate them was Henry Rousseau. The history of play therapy is discussed with further details. Few studies have been done that empirically support the effectiveness of non-directive play therapy and there have been no investigations of therapeutic processes. From a behavioral perspective, it is understood that non-contingent attention in the form of attention, the absence of demands and the environmental richness of the playroom will enhance the relationship between the child and the therapist, which in turn is essential for a therapeutic experience. Play therapy remains in great need of empirically based evaluations. Single case experimental designs, prolonging the treatment phase and incorporating new measures, just to name a few, are examples of suggestions for future directions. These suggestions are discussed in detail.
Recommended Citation
Raj, Jeslina Jayanti, "Non-Directive Play Therapy: Past, Present and Future" (2002). Masters Theses. 1550.
https://thekeep.eiu.edu/theses/1550
