Family representation with objects

Creative and therapeutic activity making paper objects to represent family (friends/pets etc).

Rather than talking about your family, this is a way to visually represent it.

1.       Roll up paper into figures and secure with masking tape.

2.       Decorate, if wish, creativity; stickers, paint, crayon, etc

Other options:

Clay (Art therapy)

1.       Paper cups

2.       Objects (animals) to represent them (father/farmer – a sheep). This could include household objects.

3.       Small life-like figures (sand play therapy)

Personal Objectives:

1. Self-Expression: Encourage expression of themselves creatively through the representation of family members with paper.
2. Reflection: Provide an opportunity for participants to reflect on their relationships with family members and how they perceive each individual.
3. Identity Exploration: Allow individuals to explore and express different aspects of their own identity as well as the identities of family members.
4. Emotional Awareness: Help participants become more aware of their emotions and feelings toward each family member, fostering emotional intelligence.
5. Communication Skills: Improve communication skills by encouraging participants to share their thoughts and feelings about each family member in a supportive environment.
6. Conflict Resolution: Provide a platform for addressing and processing conflicts within the family by representing them visually and exploring potential resolutions.
7. Empowerment: Foster a sense of empowerment by allowing individuals to make creative choices in representing each family member on the page.

Therapeutic Objectives:

1. Family Dynamics Exploration: Facilitate discussions about family dynamics, roles, and patterns, using the paper representations as a starting point.
2. Attachment Exploration: Explore attachment patterns and connections between family members through the arrangement and proximity of the paper objects.
3. Cognitive Restructuring: Use the activity to challenge and reframe negative thoughts or perceptions about family members, promoting more positive and realistic perspectives.
4. Narrative Therapy: Encourage participants to create narratives or stories around the paper representations, helping them to reframe and reinterpret family experiences.
5. Mindfulness: Integrate mindfulness techniques during the creation process to enhance awareness of the present moment and promote a sense of calm.
6. Social Support: Foster a sense of support within the group by encouraging participants to share their creations and discuss their experiences with family members.
7. Goal Setting: Use the activity to set therapeutic goals related to improving family relationships, communication, and overall well-being.