Sample interview questions: How do you address situations where a child becomes overly fixated on a specific character or narrative during play therapy?
Sample answer:
When a child becomes overly fixated on a specific character or narrative during play therapy, it is essential to approach the situation with sensitivity and understanding. As a play therapist, my primary goal is to create a safe and supportive environment for the child to express themselves freely. Here are several strategies I would employ to address this situation:
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Observation and assessment: Firstly, I would closely observe the child’s play, paying attention to the themes, characters, and narratives they consistently engage with. This allows me to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying issues or emotions the child may be trying to express.
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Reflective listening: During play therapy sessions, I would actively listen to the child’s verbal and nonverbal cues, allowing them to lead the play. By reflecting back their words and emotions, I can validate their experiences and create an empathetic connection.
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Empathetic exploration: I would gently explore the fixation on the specific character or narrative, aiming to understand its significance for the child. Through open-ended questions and gentle prompts, I would encourage the child to share their thoughts and feelings about the character or narrative, without judgment or interpretation.
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Encouraging flexibility: While acknowledging and accepting the child’s fixation, I would also introduce new toys, props, or themes into the playroom. This helps broaden their play experiences and encourages flexibility in their play narratives.
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Creating alternative storylines: To expand the child’s play repertoire, I might introduce different perspectives or alternative storylines related to the fixation. This can promote cognitive flexibility and encourage the child to think beyond the confines of their fixation.
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Symbolic play and role reversal: In some cases, I might encourage the child to engage in symbolic play or role reve… Read full answer