Helping children express grief through symbolic communication

Journal/Book: Social Casework. 1984; 65: 590-599.

Abstract: Examines the impact on children of traumatic experiences and their consequent failure in communication regarding these events. Suggestions are presented regarding the use of symbolic communication--with particular focus on employing the expressive arts such as music, art, and body movement--as a method of breaking through the communication barriers that children erect to resist discussing painful feelings. It is suggested that children's refusal to discuss uncomfortable feelings tends to prolong the grieving process; these children must be helped to "name" and "claim" these painful feelings so that they can move toward problem solution.

Note: symbolic communication with music & art & body movement; expression of feelings around traumatic experience; children in psychotherapy

Keyword(s): Emotional trauma; symbolism ; recreation therapy; communication ; nonverbal communication; play therapy; grief ; divorce ; death and dying; childhood

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