The Effectiveness of Group Sandplay Therapy on Quality of Peer Relationships and Behavioral Problems of Korean-Chinese Children in China

This study is to investigate the effectiveness of group sandplay therapy on quality of peer relationship and behavioral problems of Korean-Chinese children in China and to interpret meaning of sandpictures made by them. Utilizing a mixed-method design, twelve participants (mean age=11.50 years, 50% females) were assigned to three experiment groups with four participants in each group and another 12 children (mean age=13.50 years, 50% females) were assigned to the control group. A total of 8 sessions of group sandplay therapy were provided 2~3 times per week for 80 minutes per session. The quantitative results indicated that the group sandplay therapy improved quality of peer relationship and decreased behavioral problems. The qualitative results revealed several common themes such as emptiness, disconnection/separation, concealment, hinderance/obstruction, connection, upbringing, integration/adaptation. Limitations as well as implications for future research are discussed.