The Use of Dolls and Figures in Therapy: A Literature Review

Author

Jennifer KrystyniakFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-16-2020

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MA - Master of Arts

Department

Expressive Therapies

Advisor

Tim Reagan

Abstract

Therapists utilize various means to treat clients, which includes the use of toys, games, dolls, and other media. By reviewing existing literature on therapeutic uses of dolls, I wish to shed light on the potential benefit of using dolls and figurines in the therapeutic setting. The use of dolls in therapy has been utilized in various ways, aligning with themes of narrative, drama, play, and expression. Through a review of existing literature and case study, the use of dolls as a therapeutic intervention will be explored through examining their use in multiple populations and age groups. By highlighting their wide range of applications, dolls demonstrate to be useful objects in the therapeutic context. Existing literature outlines dolls as a means of expression through interaction and play as well as through the act of making a doll or figure. The potential benefits and practical uses of dolls in therapy are summarized and explored through literature review.

Creative Commons License

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Recommended Citation

Krystyniak, Jennifer, "The Use of Dolls and Figures in Therapy: A Literature Review" (2020). Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses. 321.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_theses/321