A Study of Professional Curiosity in Non-Directive Play Therapy and its Link to Attachment

"Professional curiosity" can be defined as initiative, interest and active wondering. Previous work suggested that although curiosity is essential in therapeutic work with children, it may also inhibit therapeutic initiative because children can defend against perceived interest. This paper explores the concept of professional curiosity within non-directive play therapy and examines its relationship with attachment theory. Drawing on grounded theory analysis of interviews with qualified non-directive play therapists, the study considers how therapists understand curiosity, power, boundaries and the therapeutic relationship. The findings suggest that professional curiosity can be understood positively within an attachment framework, where empathic interest may contribute to providing a secure base for the child and strengthening the therapeutic relationship.