Material objects and psychological theory: A conceptual literature review

Abstract

Background: This review offers a conceptual summary and critique of psychological theories and research concerning the use of material objects and their possible role in clinical work. Methods: Studies relating to the theory and use of material objects in different contexts and interventions were identified through a search of the following data bases: Psycinfo, Applied Social Sciences Index and s and Cochrane Database of Systemic Reviews. Results: The 29 papers that met inclusion criteria fell within six broad categories: psychoanalytic thinking and transitional objects, found object theory and clinical use, developmental and neuropsychological perspectives on touch, valued object choice, the relationships of material objects to identity and museum object handling interventions. Conclusions: A range of effective roles for material objects in research and clinical work was identified, and in particular, museum object-handling sessions offered short-term benefits in well-being and engagement to a variety of clinical populations. A number of methodological limitations were identified throughout this literature. The review concludes with recommendations for further research including the need for longitudinal studies, further study of the processes within group object-handling sessions and studies of multiple object-handling sessions; clinical application of material objects was also addressed.