The Use of Letters to Create Movement in Residential Settings with Adolescents and Their Parents

Abstract

Therapeutic letter writing has been used to promote change within the client and family system for some time. The use of specific letter writing assignments with an adolescent in residential care allows the therapist to work systemically on specific patterns of interaction within the family. Letters writing techniques are described that provide opportunities for adolescents to be confronted with their behaviors, while also giving them space to accept responsibility and embrace the need to change. Some possible outcomes from using such assignments include moving individuals and families through the stages of change, promoting a systemic view, slowing down the conversation, teaching communication skills, increasing nurturance, and repairing attachment injuries. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved) (Source: chapter)