The child's participation in family therapy: A review and a model

A major gap in family therapy, the treatment of children and adults together, is addressed. The literature on the children's participation is reviewed and a model which systematizes their involvement is presented. The full participation of the child necessitates the use of play. To create a context of play without alienating the rest of the family, action-promoting methods are used. These methods are implemented through family activities and role playing, which are followed by discussion. The advantages, the indications, and the contraindications to the use of action in family therapy are presented.