THE USE OF MENTAL HEALTH FILMS IN GROUP PSYCHOTHERAPY WITH PSYCHOTIC PATIENTS

Abstract

It is rather striking that so little work has been done to explore the possible usefulness of mental health films as a therapeutic adjunct in group work with psychiatric patients. A few studies have been reported in which a single film was shown to a patient group,'· 2 but only one study has been reported in which there was sustained use of films in a group setting, and in which the patients had a chance to discuss the content of the films im- mediately subsequent to their being shown.

In reading the few reports in the literature relevant to this subject and in discussing the matter informally with colleagues, we find that there areseveral bases for the resistances to the use of films. One objection is that such an approach is too intellectualized and that it is of no avail to indi- cate directly to the patient what could be troubling him. A second objec- tion lies in the fear that such fihns might have no ameliorative effect but in fact might be detrimental by arousing feelings in patients which would lead to a regression.