The Use of Transitional Objects in Emotionally-Disturbed Adolescent Inpatients

Abstract

The use of Transitional Objects (TO) by adolescents is of increasing interest because of the predominance of object relations theory and the growing interest in the borderline patient. Authors interviewed 6 female patients (17-19) about their use of a stuffed animal. They were asked to describe its qualities, their use and communication with it, and• to make up a story about it. The TO was described as soothing, loving, always available, always listens; it was given by a significant relative and symbolized union with them. The TO in adolescence fulfills the same needs as in fancy, but can now be expressed in language. The TO for these patients became endowed with the qualities they lacked and took on the characteristics of their own idealized object relat•ionship, much as a healthy person receives self-nurturance by the internationalization of a good mothering object.

The use of play therapy with adolescents in high school.

“…Although some might think that stuffed animals are not appropriate for a high school counseling office, support for the inclusion of such comforters is found in the literature on the use of transitional objects by adolescents (Daigneault, 1997; Roig, Roig, & Soth, 1987; Tabin, 1992). For adolescents who are dealing with anxiety and/or traumatic situations, stuffed animals function as comforters and as reminders of the therapeutic power of touch.…”