Abstract:
The research that was conducted focused on the perceptions of educators regarding co-operation with the play therapist in dealing with the child who has been multi-traumatized. The objective of the research was to determine the perceptions of educators regarding co-operation with the play therapist in dealing with the multi-traumatized child. In order to achieve this objective, information was gathered and a theoretical framework was drawn up through an extensive literature study and consultation with experts. An empirical study was conducted by making use of two separate focus groups. Empirical data was gathered through the use of focus group discussions. Fourteen respondents where included in this study. Applied research was used. The data gathered through the empirical study was used by the researcher to make recommendations regarding the co-operation between educators and play therapists in order to improve the therapeutic insets made by the play therapist. The researcher made use of an exploratory research design and the following research question underlined this study: What are the perceptions of educators with regards to working together with the play therapist in dealing with the multi-traumatized child. A focus group guideline was used during the focus group discussions in order to gather the empirical data. Out of the empirical data the following themes were identified: · Educators experience behavioral, emotional, and academical problems with the multi-traumatized child; · Educators has a need for information, skills and co-operation with others in dealing with the multi-traumatized child; · Educators have both positive and negative perceptions regarding play therapy; and · Educators do have a need for co-operation with the play therapist in dealing with the multi-traumatized child. The research showed that there is a need for co-operation between educators and play therapist in dealing with the multi-traumatized child. Co-operation between these two role players is not only in the best interest of the child but it also strengthens the input of both educators and play therapist in dealing with the multi-traumatized child.
