Assessment of children for psycho dynamically oriented psychotherapy

Abstract

The ideas presented for consideration are based broadly on Object Relation Theory. According to this theory, development and disturbance are essentially the outcome of the inherited potential helped or hindered by the facilitating environment. Therefore any assessment must comprehensively explore both the child's external as well as internal environment. This combined information helps to give an estimate of the strengths and vulnerabilities in both the child and his / her environment. It is on the balance of these factors that psychotherapy may or may not be recommended.


Southern African Jnl Child and Adolescent Mental Health Vol.14(1) 2002:15-23