Putting Harry Potter on the Couch – 2nd Most read article from Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry

   Putting Harry Potter on the Couch , Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry, Vol. 11, 4, 579-589 2006

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Abstract:

This article will explore J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter (2004) literary series from a psychoanalytical perspective. The author draws out the main themes of the Harry Potter stories to see if they can be employed clinically to assist in psychotherapeutic work with children and adolescents. The article begins by discussing Bettelheim’s (1976) extensive work on children’s fairytales and their therapeutic value, moving on to discuss Rustin and Rustin’s (2005) more recent insights into narrative therapy and children’s fiction. A clinical example is given of how the storylines were implemented to enhance a psychotherapeutic group process for adolescents. The author hopes to illustrate the power of symbolism and metaphor in the Harry Potter storylines and elucidate why these books may appeal to young people with mental health difficulties.

 

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