The theory of Sandplay in practice: The correspondence of Sandplay therapists' thinking to the written theory of Sandplay

This research represents an exploratory examination of the relationship between the written theory of Sandplay and the thinking of Sandplay therapists. The written theory of Sandplay was first derived through qualitative means from six works chosen to represent the essential literature on Sandplay theory. A questionnaire was then mailed to the membership of the International Society for Sandplay Therapy (ISST), asking their thoughts on several issues of Sandplay theory.; The members of the ISST generally agreed with the written theory on most issues examined in this study. There were, however, a few areas where distinct differences with the written theory emerged. The research suggests there is a core of theoretical positions to which the members adhere, and from this core radiate out a variety of interpretations and understandings of certain key issues. The study found that the members appear to agree almost unanimously with the basic concepts of the theory agreed upon within the literature.; Regarding Sandplay's relationship to verbal therapy, it appears most members feel Sandplay is capable of functioning on its own, but many use it in conjunction with verbal work. It appears that interpretation and conscious understanding are generally viewed by members as subordinate to the unconscious healing processes in Sandplay.; Transference and countertransference are phenomena that until recently have been lacking in the written theory. ISST members appear to be working hard to incorporate these concepts into the theory of Sandplay. Most members seem to feel transference is an important aspect of Sandplay, and watch for transference reactions in the created scenes.; Members' thoughts on the role of the Feminine principle in Sandplay generally do not follow the written theory. While the literature purports that Sandplay embodies the Feminine principle, the members appear to be divided on this issue. It appears that half of the members see Sandplay as essentially neutral in this respect.; This research demonstrates that the ISST members appear to be actively engaged in the process of questioning and expanding the theory, while preserving Dora Kalff's original vision of the work.