The Benefits of

Bibliotherapy

Elfera, Hamzah, Nurafiqah, Ravi, Shanu

OIntroduction to Bibliotherapy
OBenefits of Bibliotherapy to

Individuals
OBenefits of Bibliotherapy to

Groups
OUsefulness of Bibliotherapy in

Problem Solving
OPositive Behavioral Outcomes

Definition

The use of books to help people solve

problems (Aiex, 1993).
It is the sharing of literature to facilitate
structured interaction between the
facilitator and the participant.

Benefits of
Bibliotheraphy for
Individuals
Helps people to cope with their emotional
pressures
Helps to boost up self awareness
Changes peoples thought
Moral values are instilled in them

Benefits
to
Group

Increases
sense of
belonging
and
reduces
anxiety.

Provides
Extends
an outlet
Increases
awareness
for
Leads
to
empathy
beyond
students
better
and the
one's own
who are
family,
ability to understanding
reluctant
of group community
take the
to seek
norms and
, and
perspectives
expectations
help
backgroun
of others
individuall
d
y

Bibliotheraphy :
usefulness in problem
solving/ conflict/
resolution

HOW?
Do you have a favourite author or book that
you read repeatedly because the message in
the authors books or the favourite book
seems to speak to you and your life?
Have you read a book to change your
behaviour, such as a diet, self-help, or
inspirational book?
Then you have used bibliotheraphy to guide
your life, solve a problem, or make a change
in your personal behaviour.
That is what bibliotheraphy means: using
books to solve problems (Forgan, 2002).

 Teacher discuss with the pupils on how to

solve the characters conflict in the story.

I Identify the problem.

S Solutions to the Problem?
O Obstacles to the Solutions?
L Look at the Solutions Again
C Choose One.
V Very Good; Try it!
E Evaluate the Outcome.
From Teaching Problem Solving Through Childrens Literature by
James Forgan.
2002 Libraries Unlimited (800) 225-5800 or www.lu.com

Steps in Using Bibliotheraphy As

a Problem Solving Method
Element #1: Pre-reading
Step 1:
Selecting books to read must be done carefully to insure
that books are age and topic appropriate so that
children will relate to the characters.
Step 2:
Once the book is selected, teachers should help
students activate prior knowledge and background
experiences that will link them to the books content.
Using the book cover to peak interest, a toy, picture of
the character, or asking a linking question that suggests
the topic are methods used by some teachers. Teachers
may offer a Venn diagram, KWL, or a graphic organizer
to predict about the topic.

Element #2: Guided Reading

Reading and reflection are used in guided reading. Read the
entire story uninterrupted before discussion or questions
begin. After reading, allow a few moments for individual
reflection by asking students write in journals, discuss with
Peer Partners, or simply sit quietly to think about the story.
Element #3: Post-reading discussion
Step 1:
To ensure that everyone comprehends the story, teachers
should call on students to retell the plot and evaluate
characters feeling and situations.
Step 2:
Now the class is ready to discuss the story in depth by
responding to questions about their feelings and how they
might relate to the characters.

Positive
Behaviora
l
Outcomes

 Improved ability to understand and cope

with problems and issues
Increased social sensitivity, empathy, and
respect for others
Improved personal and social judgment
Increased understanding of human behavior
and motivations
Increased ability to transcend or seek help
for personal challenges and problems

The Goals of
Bibliotherapy in
Helping Children

 Identify and validate their feelings

Realize that other children have problems
similar to their own
Stimulate discussion
Foster thought and self-awareness
Discover possible coping skills and
solutions
Decide on a constructive course of action

THANK YOU