The Troncoso Method is a psychological intervention technique that has been developed especially for working with boys and girls. This therapeutic approach is known for its playful and creative approach, which seeks to encourage the expression of minors' emotions and thoughts through artistic and playful activities. In this article we will explore what the Troncoso Method consists of, how it is applied in children's therapy and the benefits it can bring to younger patients.
Origin and foundations of the Troncoso Method
The Troncoso Method was developed by the Spanish psychologist Juan Troncoso in the 1980s. Troncoso, a specialist in child psychology, sought to find a therapeutic approach that would allow boys and girls to express their emotions naturally and spontaneously, without having to resort to long conversations or deep analysis. Inspired by the theory of play as a therapeutic tool, Troncoso designed a method based on artistic expression and symbolic play as vehicles for self-knowledge and resolution of emotional conflicts.
Key principles of the Troncoso Method
The Troncoso Method is based on several key principles that guide therapeutic intervention with boys and girls. Among the main principles of the Troncoso Method, the following stand out:
- Play as a therapeutic tool: Play is the main vehicle through which therapy is carried out. in the Troncoso Method. It is considered that play is the natural way in which children explore their internal and external world, and that through it they can express their emotions and thoughts in a symbolic way.
- The Creativity as an engine of change:Children's creativity is encouraged through artistic and recreational activities, such as drawing, painting, modeling or symbolic play. It is believed that creativity facilitates the expression of complex emotions and the search for solutions to emotional problems.
- Respect for the child's rhythm: In the Troncoso Method individuality is valued of each boy and girl, respecting their pace of emotional development and adapting the therapeutic intervention to their specific needs. Pressure on the minor to express emotions or carry out activities that he or she is not prepared to undertake is avoided.
- Art as a means of expression: Art and creativity are used as means of expression. privileged expression, allowing boys and girls to communicate their feelings non-verbally and explore new ways of representing their internal world.
Application of the Troncoso Method in boys and girls
The application of the Troncoso Method in boys and girls is carried out through therapeutic sessions that combine play, art and emotional expression. The therapist, following the principles of the Troncoso Method, creates a safe and stimulating environment in which the boy or girl can feel free to explore their emotions and thoughts through different activities. Some of the techniques and activities most used in the Troncoso Method are described below:
Painting and drawing
One of the most common activities in the Troncoso Method is painting and drawing . Through these artistic means, boys and girls can represent their emotions, fears, desires and conflicts in a symbolic way. The therapist can observe the drawings and paintings made by the boy or girl to identify patterns, recurring themes or changes in emotional expression throughout the treatment.
Symbolic play
The Symbolic play is a fundamental tool in the Troncoso Method. Through play, boys and girls can represent conflictive situations, explore social roles, express desires and fears, and work on resolving internal conflicts. The therapist can participate in symbolic play as an active observer, facilitating the exploration of emotions and deep thoughts.
Modeling and artistic creation
Modeling with plasticine, creating collages or other Forms of artistic expression are activities that allow children to explore their creativity and express emotions non-verbally. This type of activities encourages experimentation, sensoriality and the construction of meanings through artistic creation.
Benefits of the Troncoso Method for boys and girls
The Troncoso Method has proven to be an effective technique for working with boys and girls who have emotional, behavioral or relationship difficulties. Some of the most notable benefits of the Troncoso Method include the following:
Promotes emotional expression
Through the recreational and artistic activities proposed in the Troncoso Method, boys and girls can Express your emotions naturally and spontaneously. This favors the identification and understanding of one's own feelings, as well as the communication of these to others in a healthier way.
It favors the resolution of conflicts
Symbolic play and Creative activities allow boys and girls to work on resolving internal conflicts in an indirect and less threatening way. Through the symbolic representation of problematic situations, minors can experience new ways of coping with their difficulties and find creative solutions.
Promotes self-esteem and autonomy
By allowing children and girls express their emotions freely and creatively, the Troncoso Method contributes to strengthening self-esteem and personal autonomy. As children feel listened to and understood in their emotional world, they gain greater confidence in themselves and their abilities to face the challenges of daily life.
It facilitates communication with the environment
Through therapy sessions based on the Troncoso Method, boys and girls develop emotional communication skills that allow them to express their needs, feelings and desires more clearly and effectively. This contributes to improving their interpersonal relationships and their adaptation in diverse social contexts.
Conclusions
The Troncoso Method is presented as an innovative and effective therapeutic tool to work with boys and girls in the field of clinical child psychology. Based on play, creativity and artistic expression, this therapeutic approach allows minors to explore and express their emotions in a natural and stimulating way, promoting their emotional and psychological development. The benefits of the Troncoso Method in boys and girls are reflected in the promotion of emotional expression, conflict resolution, strengthening self-esteem and improving communication skills and relationships with the environment. In short, the Troncoso Method stands as a valuable tool to accompany and support the emotional and personal growth of the little ones.