Paper short abstract:

My paper explores the critical application of the (TIC) model within the framework of a psychotherapy group focused on developmental trauma. The study evaluates the efficacy of various visual symbols representing the child-self, (as a representation of an aspect of the individual that is childlike).

Paper long abstract:

In Masahiro Mori's groundbreaking 1970 essay, he advocates for a comprehensive exploration of the uncanny valley phenomenon. Mori's original graph depicting the uncanny valley features a Bunraku puppet, showcasing a notable peak in 'perceiver's affinity,' successfully steering clear of the uncanny valley. In the context of my doctoral research, I delved into the pitfalls associated with the tech industry's relentless pursuit of realism. This exploration is particularly relevant to a psychotherapy group comprised of adults who endured developmental trauma during childhood, at British boarding schools.

The forthcoming discussion will propose strategies to mitigate retraumatisation by advocating for the use of blank symbolism over hyper-realistic depictions. This recommendation draws on examples from diverse mediums, including virtual reality, desktop game-like experiences, art therapy, and interactive documentaries.

The paper concludes by highlighting the pivotal role of playfulness in representations of the child-self. It posits that the most effective and vibrant portrayals of the child-self are those that embrace a departure from reality, engaging participants in the creative process and movement to access their interiority and implicit memories.

Above all, the research underscores the significance of "communitas" (Turner, 1969, 1974b) within the group dynamics. Emphasising the cumulative impact of years spent in the group setting, the paper contends that this sense of communal solidarity surpasses any singular therapeutic intervention in its influence on the participants.