ABSTRACT
Psychodynamic child therapy enjoys a rich history and tradition. The term "psychodynamic" refers to the interplay of forces or influences within the mind. Mordock explains, "In contrast to the behavioral therapist, who connects behaviors to observable antecedents and consequences, the psychodynamic therapist considers the reasons for behavior as more complex than what is revealed by observable behaviors"Most play therapists add to their collection when they attend conferences where vendors are present, and it is not necessary to have every puppet that a child might conceivably choose. Fundamentally, psychodynamic play therapists explore the painful or distressing feelings that underlie certain troublesome behaviors that are symptomatic of deeper, underlying problems. The benefits of using puppets are numerous and present in all stages of treatment. The use of puppets at this stage of treatment provides a platform for role-playing, practicing, reinforcing, and maintaining learned social and problem-solving skills. Puppets can be used as miniaturized representations of important parts of the child's world.
