Helping Children Exposed to Domestic Violence: A Scoping Review and Narrative Synthesis of Rationale and Processes in Play Therapy Programs

Abstract

This scoping review was conducted to synthesize and analyze the rationale and processes involved in implementing play therapy programs to help children who have been exposed to domestic violence. Participants of reviewed play therapies were commonly living in shelters, had experienced child maltreatment and/or witnessed family violence, and exhibited psycho-social/behavioral problems. Key steps of play therapies include using reinforcement to provide an appropriate outlet for overwhelming emotions and/or problematic behaviors, identifying modifiable behaviors underlying cognitive distortions, cognitive restructuring/re-framing, behavioral correction, and learning coping and interpersonal skills. Parents’ education, children’s improvement, and the advantages/concerns of play therapy are also discussed.