Citation

Packman J, Solt MD. Int. J. Play Ther. 2004; 13(1): 57-77.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, American Psychological Association)

DOI

10.1037/h0088885

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Preadolescence is a time in a child's life that is wrought with turmoil. Recent statistics indicate that suicide is the third most common cause of death for preadolescents and that preadolescents are more at risk for using/abusing illegal substances. Although preadolescence is a challenging developmental phase, a dearth of literature exists that addresses the developmental needs of this age group. Filial therapy, geared toward younger children, has been found to be an effective intervention for facilitating the child's emotional growth and strengthening the parent-child relationship. Because preadolescents have unique developmental needs, modifications in filial therapy are recommended. This article addresses the developmental needs of preadolescents and the challenges that parents often experience. This article also presents developmental modifications in filial therapy needed for its use with preadolescents. © 2004 Association for Play Therapy.

Language: en