The Therapeutic Power of Synthetic Relationships with Dolls - ITRA2023, Proceedings of the 9th International Toy Research Association World Conference
Journal Articles American Journal of Play Year : 2024

The Therapeutic Power of Synthetic Relationships with Dolls

Abstract

The author considers adult doll play as therapeutic intervention by examining how the physical properties of reborn dolls and also sex dolls provide comfort and establish needs met through care giving. She discusses dolls providing a sense of personal identity through narrative play, community, and retail therapy, and she describes the companionship attained through imaginative perception and social connections, all benefits that accompany what she calls a synthetic relationship. Drawing from research related to doll therapy in dementia care and from studies on sex doll usage, she considers original research on reborn dolls. She proposes that doll ownership can therapeutically support personal development and good social and mental health, thus improving broader social relationships for many doll owners.
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Dates and versions

hal-04792229 , version 1 (20-11-2024)

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  • HAL Id : hal-04792229 , version 1

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Emilie St-Hilaire. The Therapeutic Power of Synthetic Relationships with Dolls. American Journal of Play , 2024, 16 (2-3), pp.288-302. ⟨hal-04792229⟩
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