The aim of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of professionals
utilizing sensory-motor play (SMP) with young children (YC) in Gestalt play therapy in
order to provide recommendations for professionals and to create an awareness of the
value of SMP in Gestalt play therapy. Coming from an occupational therapy
background, the researcher became aware of the potential value of utilizing sensorymotor
play in Gestalt play therapy with YC. SMP, being a vital part of the sensory
integration developmental process of YC, promotes body awareness through muscle
movement and control. Awareness is one of the major aims of Gestalt play therapy. All
the senses contribute to YC's awareness, including the frequently unacknowledged
vestibu lar and proprioceptive senses. In order to treat YC holistically, the developmental
importance of SMP should be acknowledged and integrated in the therapy process.
Professionals young children working in this field, coming from diverse educational
backgrounds, do not necessarily have the knowledge or experience of the utilization of
SMPwith YC.
A qualitative research approach with a case study research design was adopted in
order to explore and describe the experiences of professionals regarding the utilization
of SMP with YC in Gestalt play therapy, through applied research. The empirical data
was collected by conducting two focus group discussions with professionals from
diverse educational backgrounds. Two main themes with different sub-themes and
categories were identified by analysing the data. The main themes are that participants
are of the opinion that SMP enhances the therapeutic relationship and that SMP has a
self-regulatory function.
The researcher concludes that professionals gained a new awareness regarding the
subject of discussion and experienced that uti lizing SMP in Gestalt play therapy with YC
can promote and facilitate whole body/mind awareness and integrated healing. / Thesis (M.A. (Psychology))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2012.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:NWUBOLOKA1/oai:dspace.nwu.ac.za:10394/7357 |
| Date | January 2011 |
| Creators | Janse van Rensburg, Liza |
| Publisher | North-West University |
| Source Sets | North-West University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
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