Summarizes the current state of the art of bibliotherapy, discusses differences between reading guidance and bibliotherapy, and discusses the preparation necessary for work in this area, focusing on the needs of librarians working with children and adolescents. Available options for training in bibliotherapy and organizations that will provide…

Books should be selected on the basis of literary merit, not as a vehicle for instruction, since we don't know the psychological effects of specific works. (DD)

Evaluated effects of competition on a bibliotherapy weight loss program offered in a clinic setting. Assigned subjects to bibliotherapy, competition, or bibliotherapy plus competition conditions. Showed the combined competition and behavioral program produced weight losses greater than those produced by either element alone, with superiority…

The author begins with a broad discussion of the background and historical development of bibliotherapy. Through the study of theories, observations, personal opinions and comments, it is concluded that the field of bibliotherapy is a very subjective one. It is recommended that libraries increase their bibliotherapeutic role. (SG)

Outlines the three desired purposes of bibliotherapy, and discusses possible misuses of the problem novel as therapy for troubled children and adolescents. It is suggested that libraries should utilize bibliotherapy in the broadest sense, not focusing on the problem novel, and guidelines for librarians are provided. (3 references) (CLB)

Discusses use of bibliotherapy by school counselor. Provides bibliotherapy resource list on these topics: abandonment, abortion and pregnancy, aging, alcoholism, anorexia nervosa, belonging, child abuse, dating, death, delinquency, divorce, drug abuse, family relationships, friendship, identity, inferiority, love, maturation, prejudice, rebellion,…

Summarizes research relating to the use of bibliotherapy in elementary schools and offers suggestions for further use in school guidance and counseling. Research suggests counselors might use bibliotherapy to help children develop or change attitudes and promote positive mental health. Proposes it is useful with both individuals and groups. (JAC)

Use of bibliotherapy with handicapped children is examined through an analysis of the literature. A conceptual framework is offered which encompasses (1) self-actualization therapy, (2) a strategy for attitudinal change, (3) a method for self concept improvement, and (4) an instructional tool. Little systematic demonstration of bibliotherapy…

This annotated bibliography on bibliotherapy is an updated version of the 1967 International Reading Association publication of the same title (RE 001 384). It contains 165 citations ranging in date from 1936 to 1970. Its subject, bibliotherapy, is based on the belief that individuals are affected by what they read and that materials selected…

Investigated the efficacy of bibliotherapy with mildly to moderately depressed older adults (N=29). Observed significant treatment effects with cognitive bibliotherapy superior to the attention control on all measures. Suggests self-help programs may be a viable alternative or adjunct to meeting the mental health needs of the older adult.…

This annotated bibliography on bibliotherapy is an updated version of the 1967 International Reading Association publication of the same title. It contains 165 citations ranging in date from 1936 to 1970. Its subject, bibliotherapy, is based on the belief that individuals are affected by what they read and that materials selected especially for…

This article discusses how students with high-incidence disabilities can benefit from using bibliotherapy by learning to become proactive problem solvers. A sample lesson plan is presented based on a teaching framework for bibliotherapy and problem solving that contains the elements of prereading, guided reading, post-reading discussion, and a…

Bibliotherapy is defined as "a process of dynamic interaction between the reader and literature--interaction which may be utilized for personality assessment, adjustment, and growth." A review of the literature dealing with bibliotherapy and a discussion of its uses are contained in this paper. The review indicates that bibliotherapy, if properly…

Bibliotherapy has great potential as an important part of patient treatment and is an obvious area for active exploration by the library profession. (Author/PF)

Discusses the use of bibliotherapy with students having disabilities. Provides an annotated bibliography of 27 books that address abuse and neglect, anger, differences, and families. (DB)