BIBLIOTHERAPY An Introduction for Educators BIBLIOTHERAPY Is the use of selected literature to help the reader grow in self understanding and resolve.

BIBLIOTHERAPYBIBLIOTHERAPY

An Introduction for An Introduction for EducatorsEducators

BIBLIOTHERAPYBIBLIOTHERAPY

Is the use of selected Is the use of selected literature to literature to

help the reader grow in self help the reader grow in self understanding and resolve understanding and resolve

real life real life issuesissues

PParticular stories can serve as articular stories can serve as a a

catalyst for discussion and catalyst for discussion and resolution of difficulties. The resolution of difficulties. The facilitator provides direction in facilitator provides direction in

the the resolution of personal troubles resolution of personal troubles

through the use of guided through the use of guided readings readings

and follow up activities.and follow up activities.

Bibliotherapy Can Be Bibliotherapy Can Be Conducted :Conducted :

On an individual basis

In a group setting

Specific literature is Specific literature is selected selected for the for the

student’s needstudent’s need

Student reads the Student reads the literature or literature or the literature the literature can be read to can be read to him or him or

herher

Various activities are Various activities are designed designed for the individual for the individual to examine to examine the literaturethe literature

In individual In individual bibliotherapy:bibliotherapy:

Using bibliotherapy in Using bibliotherapy in a group setting:a group setting:

Students read literature orally or listen while the

adult reads to them

Group discussion and activities follow

(Students become aware that they are not alone in their feelings and that perceived problems are shared by

others.)(McIntyre,T.2004)

Some Activities Are:Some Activities Are:

1.1. Discussion with the Discussion with the facilitatorfacilitator

2.2. CompositionComposition

3.3. Using a tape recorder Using a tape recorder to record to record student’s student’s thoughtsthoughts

4.4. Artistic expressionArtistic expression

How To Use BibliographyHow To Use Bibliography

1.Identify the student’s needs

2.Match the student with appropriate materials

3.Decide on the setting and time for the sessions, and how the sessions will be introduced to the student

4.Design follow-up materials for the reading (e.g., discussion, paper writing, drawing, drama).(McIntyre, T.2004)

How To Use How To Use BibliotherapyBibliotherapy

5. Motivate the student with introductory activities (e.g., asking questions to get a discussion going on the topic).

6. Engage in the reading, viewing, or listening phase. Ask leading questions and start short discussions throughout the reading. Periodically, summarize what has occurred thus far (to be sure that “the message” does not get lost in trivial points).

How To Use BibliographyHow To Use Bibliography7.Take a break or allow a few minutes for the student to reflect on the material

8.Introduce the follow-up activities:-Retelling of the story-In depth discussion of the book (e.g., discussion of right and wrong, morals, the law, strong and weak points of the main character, etc.)-Art activities -Creative writing-Drama

9.Assist the student in achieving closure through discussion and a listing of possible solutions or some other activity.

(McIntyre, T. 2004)

The following themes The following themes work well using a work well using a bibliotherapeutic bibliotherapeutic

model:model:IdentitySelf KnowledgeSelf EsteemBullyingLearning DisabilitiesDivorceDeath and Loss

IdentificationIdentification CatharsisCatharsis

InsightInsight

The individual is believed to The individual is believed to receive thereceive the benefitsbenefits

of bibliotherapy by passingof bibliotherapy by passing through three stages:through three stages:

IdentificationIdentification

The student identifies with a book character and events in the story, either real or

fictitious. Sometimes it is best to have a character of similar age to the youngster who faces similar events. At other times, cartoon

characters and stories are best. (McIntyre,T.2004)

CatharsisCatharsis

The student becomes emotionally The student becomes emotionally

involved in the story and involved in the story and

is able to release pent-up is able to release pent-up

emotions under safe conditions emotions under safe conditions

(often through discussion or artwork).(often through discussion or artwork).((McIntyre,T.2004)McIntyre,T.2004)

InsightInsightThe student, after catharsis

(with the help of the teacher), becomes aware that his/her problems might also be addressed or solved. Possible solutions to the book character’s and one’s own personal problems are

identified. (McIntrye, J.T,2004)

Six Goals for using Bibliotherapy in Six Goals for using Bibliotherapy in the Classroomthe Classroom

Providing students with information regarding their problems

Providing insight into student students’ problems

Creating discussion among students about their problems

Letting students know that other people share their problems

Communicating new values and attitudes

Providing solutions to problems(Pardeck,J.T. 1997)

To Learn More-contact the following To Learn More-contact the following online resources for information and online resources for information and

book listsbook lists -www.BehaviorAdvisor.com. The United Federation of Teachers says of www.BehaviorAdvisor.com: "A wild, witty and highly practical site for educators challenged by student (mis) behavior. A definite mental health destination for teachers at their wits end in managing challenging behavior. Also provides online opportunities for teachers to help other teachers with student behavior issues!"   

More Resources… - Magination (not "Imagination") Press is one company that offers a wide selection of books on a variety of issues.  They can be contacted at www.maginationpress.com or by calling 1-800-374-2721.

- Lutra Press (http://www.lutrapress.com or Phone: 503-291-0265) has a resource book that lists various fiction books to use for a large variety of issues in childrens' lives.

BibliographyBibliography

Pardeck, J.T. (1995). Bibliotherapy: An innovative approach for helping children. Early Child Development and Care, 110, 83-88.

Pardeck, J.A. & Pardeck, J.T. (1994, Summer). Using literature to help the adolescents cope with problems. Adolescence, 29, 421-471.

Schlessinger, E. (2003). Bibliotherapy: Using children’s literature to raise the self-esteem of elementary school students.

McIntyre, T. (2004). How to use psycho educational interventions: Bibliotherapy.

Www.BehaviorAdvisor.com.