Toward secure attachment in adolescent relational development: Advancements from sandplay and expressive play-based interventions

摘要

Recently, the literature on parent-adolescent attachment relationships has demonstrated associations between secure, positive attachment and (a) lower mental health difficulties (Van Doorn, Branje, & Meeus, 2011), (b) meaningful relationships (McGee, Williams, Howden-Chapman, Martin, & Kawachi, 2006), and (c) increased career success (Shelton & van den Bree, 2010). In contrast, those adolescents who fail to form meaningful attachments with caregivers appear to struggle in these areas. As new relationships develop and alter or dissipate over time, adolescents may experience variations and fluctuations in their mental well-being (Berger, Jodl, Allen, McElhaney, & Kuperminc, 2005). This article provides a comprehensive literature review of the most current research in adolescent attachment, as well as clinical implications for play therapists who recognize the significance of the therapeutic dyad when working with adolescents. Additionally, the article discusses case studies involving the integration of expressive art therapy interventions, such as sandplay (Donald, 2003; Green 2012), to strengthen the adolescent's overall schema of attachment to 'secure.'