Therapeutic Limits from an Attachment Perspective

Abstract

This article applies attachment theory and relevant research to therapeutic limit setting and focuses particularly on child-centred, non-directive play therapy (NDPT) practice. We review the role of limits in therapeutic change and examine whether therapeutic limit setting exhibits properties similar to those evident in typical adult-child relationships, a topic not previously considered in the literature. The first section identifies properties considered inherent in optimal attachment relationships from a limit setting perspective, drawing particularly on Heard and Lake's (1997) extension of Bowlby's attachment theory. The next section discusses therapists' use of limit setting from an attachment standpoint, distinguishing features of therapeutic limit setting which reflect properties evident in sensitive adult-child attachments. Finally, implications for further research and practice in child therapy are explored.