Cartoon Hypnotherapy : An Innovative Treatment Approach for Childhood Emotional Disturbances / Richard J. Crowley and Joyce C. Mills.

Cartoon research includes the areas of experimental designs carried out in school classroom environments to determine the effects of cartoon viewing on children's behavior and the medical utilization of cartoons as part of an overall treatment program. This study differs from previous research by accepting the reality of cartoon viewing and attempting to use it in a therapeutic manner. Children choose a cartoon helper, one best suited to his or her situation. The therapist then places the selected cartoon character in a clearly defined therapeutic framework by giving it, in conjunction with the child, a specific role in relation to resolving the problem area. The method involves cartoon pretend techniques which combine the elements of identifying the problem, selecting a cartoon helper, and creating a solution with the cartoon helper. Variations include story telling and artistic metaphors. As the child narrows and fixates his attention on his own internal imaginative activities, he may experience both a dissociation from his problem and an array of positive visual and auditory hallucinations involving his cartoon character. During this time, the therapist can use indirect suggestions with the child. Future research needs to determine the scope and reliability of cartoon therapy. (Two case examples illustrating the two methods are included, along with a three-page list of references.) (ABL)

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