Today’s Book Blogger Hop question is: What is your opinion of bibliotherapy? Do you think this is a useful way of dealing with psychological issues? If you’ve used it yourself, or know someone who has, what books(s) would you recommend?
I’ll admit I had to look up “bibliotherapy” for this question, but it appears to mean pretty much what I’d expect: reading as a component of therapy. It seems to be not so much about reading instructive books, but reading in general, often fiction. Here’s an interesting article on the subject.
So, now that we’ve defined our terms–as a very definite non-expert on the subject, I think it sounds like a good idea. I don’t think it would be a substitute for other kinds of therapy, especially for people with very serious things to deal with, but as a component it seems like it could be helpful. I’ve long said that Terry Pratchett books are my favorite cure for gloomy days! And with more seriousness, I think exposure to stories, especially ones that are uplifting or have good messages, can be very positive for mental health.
On the flip side, sad stories or horror stories could have a negative impact, in the wrong moment for the wrong person! So it’s not quite as straight-forward as “read anything, it will do you good.”
I once attended a very interesting presentation at a sci fi/fantasy convention about using Harry Potter books as a component of therapy. I unfortunately don’t remember most of it, but what stuck was an anecdote about using Professor Trelawney’s story to combat anxiety.
Tales of the Marvelous 