The Sandplay Creation of a Biracial Child
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Authors
Moreland, Eric W.
Issue Date
2003
Type
Dissertation
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
This study explored the sandtray creations of an 8 ½ year old biracial female. A qualitative case study methodology was used to explore unique meanings along culture and gender. The child was of African American and Caucasian ethnicity from an urban community in the San Francisco Bay Area. Data were collected from a series off our consecutive sandtray sessions that were videotaped for later review and analysis. Trays were analyzed for both content and process. A female, African American consultant and the author (white male) reviewed the sandtray constructions for notable findings. Results consisted of analysis of themes concerning identity development, use of multiethnic human figures, and use of the sandtray process to depict issues concerning sociopolitical and world events. The results indicated that sandtray could assist children in reconciling issues around identity development and for working through concerns about difficult everyday events such as war and local events. Findings suggest that sandtray may serve as a useful modality for children to identify and begin dialogue around issues of race, ethnicity, discrimination, and privilege. It is hoped that this study may promote increased awareness and understanding for therapists working with children of color, as well as children of dominant culture in terms of how children relate to the therapist, to themselves, to others, and to world events.