Containment Theory Essay

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THEORIES, CONCEPTS AND PRINCIPLES The Solihull approach to parenting is developed on two primary principles: • Some parents feel concerned or overwhelmed by the emotions expressed by their child • Child behavioural problems arise from children’s own inability to contain their emotions. The theoretical model that supports this approach is based on three key concepts; • Containment • Reciprocity • Behaviour management The theoretical model is extremely hands-on, in that each component appraises practice. None of the theory is new, but what is new is the combination of different theoretical ideas into one model and then translating them all into everyday practice. CONTAINMENT The concept of containment on its own has been discussed by many eminent psychoanalysts including Freud even as early as the late 19th century. Containment refers to the process where one person ‘contains’ the emotional perturbed state of another without becoming overwhelmed and communicates it back to the person in such a way that restores their capacity to think (Bion, 1993). This is a parallel or a two-way process which contains and that which is contained. Containment is usually at the beginning of the Solihull approach and involves learning to manage and process one’s emotions. A new born infant displays a variety of unsettled, strong feelings as they are unable to understand and resolve these feelings. These are in turn projected on to the parents who may not be able to effectively respond to them. With the Solihull approach, the parents are empowered to understand the origins and the needs behind these emotions and handle them in a calm sensible and thoughtful manner. By following this approach the parents do not feel overwhelmed or helpless ... ... middle of paper ... ...hus learn techniques to set limits on unwanted child behaviour and help their child contain their own difficult emotions. The Solihull Approach therefore teaches parents how to understand and contain their own emotions, and simultaneously the emotions of their child. These are very useful skills for parents identify and develop appropriate strategies for managing their child’s behaviour. Children who experience greater containment and reciprocity will also be better able to manage their own emotions and behaviour. Improved child behavioural and emotional regulation should, in turn, help children do better in school and reduce the risk of antisocial behaviour and substance misuse when they get older. In essence the approach expands opportunities “to build the capacity of individuals, families and communities to secure the best outcomes for children and young people”

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