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Article

The Developmental Function of Play and Its Relevance for Transactional Analysis

Pages 80-84
Published online: 28 Dec 2017
 
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The conditions that facilitate the development and expression of play in children are examined, and the importance of the “holding environment” (Winnicott, 1971, p. 130) is highlighted. The authors' central thesis is that the experience of enough Free Child activity lays the foundation for the development of a healthy Adult. The clinical implications of this approach are related to Berne's (1962) description of the therapy process.

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Diana Shmukler

Diana Shmukler, Ph.D., PTM, is a professor in the School of Psychology, University of the Witwatersrand, where she coordinates the M.A. Clinical training program. She is also a Clinical Transactional Analyst in private practice and does training and supervision in Johannesburg.

Merle Friedman

Merle Friedman, Ph.D., CM, is a Marriage Guidance Counselor in Johannesburg, South Africa, and is completing clinical training.