Samenvatting

This article discusses practical research, that was realized under the supervision of children’s mental health organization ‘STERKR’. STERKR is known for its comprehensive approach and for including the child’s close environment in therapy. However, dramatherapist Smits found such an approach lacking in dramatherapy. Therefore, the main goal of this research was to develop a dramatherapeutic method for strengthening parent-child relationships. Such a method was predicted to contribute to working comprehensively in mental health care, as well as facilitate the transfer of acquired skills into daily life.
A qualitative research method was used: scientific articles were analyzed about attachment and the use of play in therapy. Moreover, three children’s mental health professionals were interviewed about their experiences in using play in therapy.
The results showed that attachment is an essential factor in children’s development, with many implications for their emotional/relational future. A secure parent-child attachment can be fostered by sensitive-responsive parenting. Play has many qualities that make it a powerful tool in stimulating healthy attachment: play is something children naturally do, it promotes empathy and taking control, it focuses on the positive, and metaphors provide safety.
Based on the aforementioned, the therapy method ‘Samen Spelen op Symbolische Safari!’ was developed. SSoSS includes parents and child, provides a positive, easy-access approach while working metaphorically and profoundly, and focuses on self-agency. The dramatherapist takes an empathic, semi-directive stance, based on equality. The main concept of this method is the child choosing animal puppets, reflecting each family member’s personality. Playing and experimenting with these puppets, the family is metaphorically working through its issues and finding its strengths.
Possible pitfalls are discussed, and it is concluded that combining drama-/play therapy and systemic concepts offers many possibilities for working more comprehensively. To conclude, future research areas are suggested, for example exploring clients’ views on family dramatherapy.