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A Drama-Based Group Intervention for Adolescents to Improve Mentalization

Goddard, Michael S
http://orcid.org/0000-0003-2117-5590
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=antioch1597409479861618

Abstract Details

2020, Psy. D., Antioch University, Antioch New England: Clinical Psychology.
This dissertation is an innovative intervention design to improve mentalization in preadolescents. The intervention presented is conducted in a group format and using techniques drawn from drama-based therapy. I have provided a brief literature review on mentalization, and relevant topics in group treatment and drama therapy. I have outlined key concepts from mentalization theory including: (a) the development of the self, (b) its relationship to attachment, (c) psychic equivalence and pretend mode functioning, (d) marked-affect mirroring, (e) the various facets of mentalization, and (f) mentalization treatment with children. After outlining these concepts, I discuss psychodynamic group treatment, mentalization-based group therapy, and the mechanism of change in group treatment from a neurobiologically informed perspective. From there I discuss concepts from play and drama therapy relevant to work with preadolescents. The topics covered in the literature review are used as a basis for an mentalization-based intervention appropriate for preadolescents. The argument is made that drama therapy is an appropriate vehicle through which this age group can be engaged as they are often regarded as too old for the typical toys of play therapy, but not yet ready for an adult approach to group treatment. Following the literature review, an intervention design is proposed. The proposal offers guidance on the structure of the group intervention, approach taken by the therapist, and the format of a typical session. Finally, limitations, future directions, and reflections on conducting this research are discussed.
Theodore Ellenhorn, PhD, ABPP (Committee Chair)
Vincent Pignatiello, PsyD (Committee Member)
Megan Turchetti, PsyD (Committee Member)
77 p.
Clinical Psychology
mentalization; group therapy; drama therapy; preadolescence

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Goddard, M. S. (2020). A Drama-Based Group Intervention for Adolescents to Improve Mentalization [Doctoral dissertation, Antioch University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=antioch1597409479861618

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Goddard, Michael. A Drama-Based Group Intervention for Adolescents to Improve Mentalization. 2020. Antioch University, Doctoral dissertation. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=antioch1597409479861618.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Goddard, Michael. "A Drama-Based Group Intervention for Adolescents to Improve Mentalization." Doctoral dissertation, Antioch University, 2020. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=antioch1597409479861618

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

antioch1597409479861618
342
© 2020, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by Antioch University and OhioLINK.