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  • Essay / The power of story and biotherapy - 702

    In the article “The power of story”, stories are not just a book to read, stories become a defense mechanism and a zone comfort for children. Children who have been victims of a physically and/or emotionally abusive situation may be greatly affected by the stories. Researchers found that reading a book similar to the child's situation with an alternative ending had uplifting results with children. Jean and John Pardeck, in the article The Power of Story, highlight how "literature provides models for how to understand and manage real-life dilemmas and situations." This depiction of power through stories can best be described as bibliotherapy. This type of therapy helps human beings to self-heal and understand themselves through literature and films. The exact definition of bibliotherapy is: “A truly generic term for a continuum of activities that offer the potential for growth, self-understanding, and healing through the use of literature or film” (45). Researchers "David Russell and Caroline Shrodes define bibliotherapy in a much simpler form, the process between reader and literature, the interaction that can be used for personality assessment or for adjustment, preparation, healing and growth” (45). Bibliotherapy traditionally has three conceptual processes; identification, catharsis and problem solving. Identification is described as the connection the reader has with the character. It's the value the character brings to you and the emotional affiliation you have with that character, on their journey through life. In books, individuals are able to connect with the character in a novel and experience their stories. These characters can become the equivalent of a best friend, they can even express...... middle of paper ...... of a novel. Bibliotherapy has grown considerably in the United States. It was mainly in the 19th century that the use of bibliotherapy began to grow epically on a national scale. They found this method so effective that countries like the United Kingdom began their bibliotherapy programs helping victims through novels, in psychiatric hospitals. There is a copious amount of research and studies that indicate how powerful stories can be. They have shown the success of numerous bibliotherapy treatments. This type of therapy has been described as one of the most important therapies, due to its reduced risk in major depression. Bibliotherapy has played a very important role in helping victims emotionally and physically. This therapy can also help other people suffering from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and many others, this therapy is very effective..