Exploring the efficacy of play therapy with children who have experienced sexual abuse
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Authors
Pilger, Marissa
Issue Date
2025-11-18
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
play therapy , childhood sexual abuse , control , safety , adverse childhood experiences [ACEs] , child development , cultrual humility
Alternative Title
Abstract
This capstone project compiles and reviews literature that explores the use of play therapy as a modality for working with children who have experienced sexual abuse. By exploring the research question "what is the efficacy of play therapy as a treatment method for children who have experienced sexual abuse?" it was noted that play therapy meets many needs for working with this population. Play therapy allows the child to maintain a sense of safety and control, in a developmentally appropriate manner while a therapist supports their treatment process. It was noted, however, that there are gaps in the literature, and more rigorous research is needed to substantiate long-term effects across larger populations. Cultural humility and ethical considerations are recommended for therapists working in this modality to best support these vulnerable clients through their unique circumstances. This paper finds that play therapy demonstrates efficacy in supporting children who have experienced sexual abuse, while acknowledging a need for further research.
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Citation
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License
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States
openAccess
openAccess