Connecting ETC and ARC: The Beginnings of an Integrative Framework for Working with Children with Relational Trauma, a Literature Review

Author

Melissa Taylor, Lesley UniversityFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-18-2019

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MAE - Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies

Department

Expressive Therapies

Advisor

Donna Owens

Abstract

Relational trauma is an impactful experience, affecting a person’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Children with relational trauma experiences are particularly vulnerable due to being in a stage of active development. Relational trauma can have a lasting impact on a child’s psychosocial, cognitive, and neurological development. This literature review explores the current research concerning children who have experienced relational trauma, the developmental impact of relational trauma, the treatment needs of this population, and a current, evidence-based treatment option for this population—the Attachment, Self-Regulation, Competency (ARC) framework. On the basis of this research, this literature review will outline how expressive arts therapy and the Expressive Therapies Continuum (ETC) can be used as effective treatment options for this population. Additionally, this literature review will highlight treatment correlations between the ETC and ARC, demonstrating the beginnings of an ETC/ARC integrative framework for working with children with relational trauma.

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Recommended Citation

Taylor, Melissa, "Connecting ETC and ARC: The Beginnings of an Integrative Framework for Working with Children with Relational Trauma, a Literature Review" (2019). Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses. 189.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_theses/189