Using Relaxation Imagery with Children with Malignancies: A Developmental Perspective

Abstract

Developmental theory has been the foundation for this program of relaxation — imagery therapy with its goal of increasing the efficacy of immune mechanisms, thus increasing the survival rate of children with malignancies and/or improving the comfort and quality of their lives. Three basic constructs — the impact of social stress, the positive development of attachment and the negative effects of separation and loss, and the stages of concept formation relating to the functioning of the human body, the processes of disease and death — are basic approaches to the use of imagery — relaxation as an integral part of a comprehensive care plan.