Adoption &Fostering, Ahead of Print.
Theraplay® is a relationship-focused intervention based upon attachment theory that involves both adult and child. There is a growing evidence base for Theraplay® as an intervention with children and families although empirical research on its use with adoptive families is currently in its infancy. This research provides an understanding of the reasons for choosing Theraplay® as a support for adoptive families, how the intervention was implemented within a Regional Adoption Agency (RAA) and explores the views of adoptive parents and professionals regarding its effectiveness. The research design was a multiple case study with embedded units of analysis. Semi-structured interviews were used with adoptive parents and three focus groups were held with professionals to collect qualitative data. The data were analysed thematically resulting in the emergence of four main themes: support, process of intervention, impact of intervention and meeting the needs of adoptive parents. These themes are discussed in relation to existing literature, implications for practice and future research. The limitations of the research are also discussed.Plain Language SummaryTheraplay® is an intervention that focuses on developing relationships between adults and children and is rooted within attachment theory. Some studies suggest that Theraplay® is an effective intervention in work with children and families, but there is little research into its benefits specifically for adoptive families.The current study gathered the views of three different adoptive families who attended a Theraplay® informed intervention and the corresponding professionals involved in running these sessions. It focuses on the reasons why Theraplay® was chosen as a support for adoptive families, how it was established and run within one Regional Adoption Agency (RAA) and whether the intervention was seen as beneficial for the three families as well as what improvements could be made.Participants’ views were gathered through interviews and focus groups and the findings were analysed to look for similar themes to report on. The four main themes generated were: support, process of intervention, impact of intervention and meeting the needs of adoptive parents. These themes are discussed here, linking them to previous research on Theraplay® and any future suggestions for how professionals may deliver the intervention. The limitations of the research are also discussed.