BIBLIOTHERAPY
An Introduction for Educators
BIBLIOTHERAPY
Is the use of selected literature to
help the reader grow in self
understanding and resolve real life
issues
Particular stories can serve as a
catalyst for discussion and
resolution of difficulties. The
facilitator provides direction in the
resolution of personal troubles
through the use of guided readings
and follow up activities.
Bibliotherapy Can Be
Conducted :
On
In
an individual basis
a group setting
In individual bibliotherapy:

Specific literature is selected
for the student’s need

Student reads the literature or
the literature can be read to
him or her

Various activities are designed
for the individual to examine
the literature
Using bibliotherapy in a
group setting:
 Students
read literature orally or
listen while the adult reads to them
Group discussion and activities
follow
(Students become aware that they are
not alone in their feelings and that
perceived problems are shared by
others.)(McIntyre,T.2004)

Some Activities Are:
1. Discussion with the facilitator
2. Composition
3. Using a tape recorder to record
student’s thoughts
4. Artistic expression
How To Use Bibliography
1.Identify the student’s needs
2.Match the student with appropriate
materials
3.Decide on the setting and time for the
sessions, and how the sessions will be
introduced to the student
4.Design follow-up materials for the reading
(e.g., discussion, paper writing, drawing,
drama).(McIntyre, T.2004)
How To Use Bibliotherapy
5. Motivate the student with introductory
activities (e.g., asking questions to get a
discussion going on the topic).
6. Engage in the reading, viewing, or listening
phase. Ask leading questions and start short
discussions throughout the reading.
Periodically, summarize what has occurred thus
far (to be sure that “the message” does not get
lost in trivial points).
How To Use Bibliography
7.Take a break or allow a few minutes for the student to
reflect on the material
8.Introduce the follow-up activities:
-Retelling of the story
-In depth discussion of the book
(e.g., discussion of right and wrong, morals, the law, strong and weak
points of the main character, etc.)
-Art activities
-Creative writing
-Drama
9.Assist the student in achieving closure through discussion and
a listing of possible solutions or some other activity.
(McIntyre, T. 2004)
The following themes work
well using a bibliotherapeutic
model:







Identity
Self Knowledge
Self Esteem
Bullying
Learning Disabilities
Divorce
Death and Loss
The individual is believed to receive the
benefits
of bibliotherapy by passing
through three stages:

Identification
 Catharsis
 Insight
Identification
The student identifies with a book
character and events in the story, either
real or fictitious. Sometimes it is best
to have a character of similar age to the
youngster who faces similar events. At
other times, cartoon characters and
stories are best. (McIntyre,T.2004)
Catharsis
The student becomes emotionally
involved in the story and
is able to release pent-up
emotions under safe conditions
(often through discussion or artwork).(McIntyre,T.2004)
Insight
The student, after catharsis (with the
help of the teacher), becomes aware
that his/her problems might also be
addressed or solved.
Possible solutions to the book
character’s and one’s own personal
problems are identified. (McIntrye, J.T,2004)
Six Goals for using Bibliotherapy in
the Classroom




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Providing students with information
regarding their problems
Providing insight into student students’
problems
Creating discussion among students about
their problems
Letting students know that other people
share their problems
Communicating new values and attitudes
Providing solutions to problems(Pardeck,J.T. 1997)
To Learn More-contact the following
online resources for information and
book lists


-www.BehaviorAdvisor.com.
The United Federation of Teachers says of
www.BehaviorAdvisor.com: "A wild, witty
and highly practical site for educators
challenged by student (mis) behavior. A
definite mental health destination for
teachers at their wits end in managing
challenging behavior. Also provides online
opportunities for teachers to help other
teachers with student behavior issues!"
More Resources…
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
- Magination (not "Imagination") Press is
one company that offers a wide selection of
books on a variety of issues. They can be
contacted at www.maginationpress.com or
by calling 1-800-374-2721.
- Lutra Press
(http://www.lutrapress.com or Phone: 503291-0265) has a resource book that lists
various fiction books to use for a large
variety of issues in childrens' lives.
Bibliography

Pardeck, J.T. (1995). Bibliotherapy: An innovative approach
for helping children. Early Child Development and Care,
110, 83-88.

Pardeck, J.A. & Pardeck, J.T. (1994, Summer). Using
literature to help the adolescents cope with problems.
Adolescence, 29, 421-471.

Schlessinger, E. (2003). Bibliotherapy: Using children’s
literature to raise the self-esteem of elementary school
students.

McIntyre, T. (2004). How to use psycho educational
interventions: Bibliotherapy.
Www.BehaviorAdvisor.com.
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