Understanding therapeutic support for adoptive families through the golden thread of attachment theory, constructionism and creative arts therapies

<b>Introduction:</b> This PhD by Portfolio explores the individualised therapeutic support needed for adoptive families and the training required for creative arts therapists to effectively provide this support. Utilising attachment theory and constructionism as foundational frameworks, the research highlights the optimal strategies for aiding adoptive families in therapeutic contexts.<br/><br/><b>Methods: </b>Volume 1 presents three project outputs structured in sonata form, complemented by volume 2 containing the outputs themselves. The researcher, a music therapist and manager with a focus on attachment theory and constructionism, employs sonata form to reflect her expertise and convey her authentic voice.<br/><br/><b>Results: </b>The findings indicate a strong interconnection between attachment theory, constructionism, and creative arts, which collectively foster positive transformations for adoptive families. For organisations aiming to enhance attachment relationships within these families, integrating these theories into managerial practices is essential. This approach necessitates consistent care for both families and therapists, regular collaborative opportunities between families and therapists for sharing insights, and a recognition of the distinct needs of the adoptive community in service planning. Additionally, the research identifies a gap in the existing literature regarding creative arts interventions for adoptive families, highlighting a critical area for future exploration.<br/><br/><b>Discussion:</b> The thesis aims to identify effective methods for supporting adoptive families and their therapists. It underscores the necessity for services to actively engage with the adoptive community to address their specific needs. Therapists and organisations are urged to exemplify consistent care to cultivate secure attachment experiences and emotional resilience among adoptive families. Furthermore, creative arts therapists are encouraged to express their authentic voices to emphasise the significance of their contributions.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

Doctoral Thesis

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

Student thesis

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Swanick, Rachel

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Wallace, Carolyn
• Culwick, Michelle
• Coombes, Elizabeth

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

oai:pure.atira.dk:studenttheses/b354ff4d-2ce5-4df1-8489-4bb8725bafa8

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:pure.atira.dk:studenttheses/b354ff4d-2ce5-4df1-8489-4bb8725bafa8