Therapists' perceptions on the implementation of Theraplay® in the South African context

Abstract

Attachment theory is a fundamental framework established to understand mental health and emotion regulation in children and adults. Studies have indicated that disruptions to attachment within caregiver-child relationships can result in several psychological and behavioural challenges in children. As a result, various attachment-based interventions have been developed to remediate these relational challenges within caregiver-child dyads. Theraplay® is one such therapeutic modality that is play-based and involves the caregiver and child within the therapeutic process. Despite its popularity among practitioners, Theraplay® has not received much attention in literature with limited consideration given to its implementation in contexts outside of the United States of America (USA). Therefore, the aim of this study is to explore therapists’ perceptions on the implementation of Theraplay® in the South African context. An exploratory qualitative research design situated within an interpretive paradigm was adopted to explore the perceptions of research participants regarding implementing Theraplay® in South Africa. Through purposive sampling, and secondary snowball sampling, six participants—trained in Theraplay®—were selected to take part in the study. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with each participant and transcripts were analysed via inductive thematic analysis. The following salient themes emerged across the data set: 1) overall potential of Theraplay® as a therapeutic modality, 2) applicability of Theraplay® in South Africa, 3) impact of resource availability on Theraplay® in South Africa, and 4) role of caregiver accessibility and influence on Theraplay®. Overall, participants valued Theraplay® as an attachment-based modality but considered administrative challenges as requiring further deliberation pertaining to contextual and cultural aspects of this therapeutic intervention for South Africa. This may stimulate further research on possible context-specific adaptations or additions to Theraplay® in order to respond more efficiently through psychological treatment of children’s problems within the South African population. It also indicates the need to continue expanding research regarding caregiving practices within diverse cultural contexts such as South Africa.