The Art and Science of Motivation: A Therapist's Guide to Working with Children

by Jenny Ziviani, Anne A. Poulsen (Editor), Monica Cuskelly

Placing motivation at the heart of all encounters and therapeutic activities, this book presents a groundbreaking, evidence-based model for working with children, including those with physical disabilities, learning disabilities and emotional and behavioural difficulties. Drawing on Self-Determination Theory (SDT), the authors describe this innovative paradigm - the model of Synthesis of Child, Occupational Performance and Environment - in Time (SCOPE-IT) - and explain how it can be used to sustain the child's motivation and active involvement in the therapeutic process. They suggest ways of using language and of structuring and working with the environment to maximise engagement and autonomy and achieve the best possible treatment outcomes. The challenges professionals may face when working with children are also clearly addressed, and engaging case studies and photographs place the key theoretical concepts in a richly human and personal context. Combining accessible theory with a wealth of tools and strategies for practice, this book is essential reading for all those working therapeutically with children, including occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, psychologists and psychotherapists.

331 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 15, 2012

Reviews

[Don · Rating 5 out of 5]

I only read the first four chapters, which summarize self-determination theory, explain our three basic psychological needs (autonomy, relatedness, and competence), and offer ways therapists can support these needs in their clients. The presentation was clear and concise, and I'm going to use many of these ideas in my own practice. I didn't get to the last four chapters, which seem a bit repetitious and basic, but maybe I'll return to them if I ever have the time/energy.