Techniques for Involving the Child with MBD in Meaningful Psychotherapy

Abstract

A problem familiar to all child therapists is that of engaging an inhibited, uncooperative, or resistant child in meaningful psychotherapy. The child with minimal brain dysfunction may be particularly difficult to involve and may be even more prone to exhibit impediments to therapeutic engagement. In addition, his impairments in perception, conceptualization, and concentration frequently compound the therapist's difficulties in treating his emotional problems. The author presents a number of games that he has found useful in involving children with MBD. They are all based on the standard board game (traditionally attractive to most children), and utilize token reinforcement to further stimulate interest. The Mutual Story telling Technique and other forms of therapeutic communication are also incorporated into the game structure in a way to further enhance the child's involvement.