Modern Attachment Theory and the Dynamics of Play - Focusing on the Application to Play Therapy -
AUTHOR : 이순행
INFORMATION : page. 1~28 / 2016 Vol.23 No.3
ABSTRACT
Based on a literature review, this study explores the modern attachment theory of emotional arousal and
regulation paradigm and examines the dynamics of play from the perspective of interpersonal neurobiology
whose framework has been built on various theories such as Panksepp’s affective-motivational theory,
Porges’s polyvagal theory, and Kestly’s play theory. Applying the framework to the practice of play
therapy, this study sheds light in that therapist should be attuned to the arousal level of a child client
when playing, and be able to communicate with the client nonverbally. Then, a safe relationship and a
space for playing are created, which leads to the child client playing in order to explore his mind.
Therapist also needs to build an inclusive relationship in order to draw on and to help regulate the
affective arousal of the child client which is enacted implicitly. These processes are required because a
therapeutic relationship is not only the first requirement for a therapeutic alliance in the early stages of
treatment but also an essential element over the span of treatment in order to create a real therapeutic
change.