ABSTRACT
A sturdy structure can withstand threats whereas one with a weak foundation lacks immunity. In considering what accounts for sturdiness in human beings, the metaphor of building construction has been used. For example, scaffolding (Bruner, 1987, p. 74) describes the parental lending of consciousness to the child who is developing language and coping abilities. Parents instinctively and gradually remove scaffolding when the child has acquired a self-supported level of strength. Kaye (1982) describes the infant as an apprentice to the master craftsman (the parent) in a workshop where the two interact as a merged unit. The parent expects increased regulatory capabilities in concert with the infant’s developmental abilities. As skills are integrated, the need for parental oversight diminishes. Similarly, within the process of art therapy treatment, the goal is always to strengthen children so that they can face challenges with heightened sturdiness. Art therapy interventions may serve as scaffolding designed to stabilize and solidify the child’s personality structure.
