The importance of multiple-family group therapy in treatment of psychosomatic pathology

Abstract

Introduction

The “parental multiple-family school” was developed in Buenos Aires (Argentina) by E. Rotenberg, based on the theory and practice of J. García Badaracco's multiple-family psychoanalysis (which further expands on the classical psychoanalysis’ frame), applying it to the kids and their relatives. We will focus on the therapeutic group treating psychosomatic pathology, with the collaboration of the Dermatology department of the Hospital de Niños Dr. Ricardo Gutiérrez.

Objective

To highlight the importance of creating spaces to modify the psychic mechanisms and resources of the psychosomatic patient at an infant age.

Methods

We describe the “multiple-family parents school”, an open, weekly group, coordinated by two psychologists and assisted by a dermatologist, in which the theories of J. García Badaracco's multiple-family group analysis are applied. We also discuss the importance of applying this system in our clinical practice.

Results

We observed, according to the Dermatology department, very positive and significative changes in every post-group, which could lead to the disappearance of dermatological diseases in different patients without a pharmacological treatment which was previously given as first option. Single-session groups had many advantages, including the removal of waiting lists, a better development of the emotional connection between kids and their families, and a reduction of the therapeutic and professional costs.

Conclusion

We think that starting interventions in multiple-family group therapy in Madrid in order to treat psychosomatic diseases in kids and teenagers should be encouraged after the very positive clinical experience in other cities.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.