ABSTRACT
This paper describes the use of a videotaping technique in groups of young children of substance abusers. The technique has been found to be particularly useful in working with very emotionally disturbed, acting out children. Use of video can be incorporated into the group at different stages in order to help children understand facts about alcoholism or other substance abuse, develop strategies for coping, and to help understand the roles which family members take in response to substance abuse. Vignettes of actual videotapes produced by children in the groups are presented. A strategic/systemic analysis of shame-based families is advanced to explain the efficacy of the videotaping method with deeply disturbed children. Considerations for the development of this technique are presented, including the question of involvement of parents.
