Interesting that in pure medical and mental health practices appropriate
touch isn't used more. In pediatrics and especially at our clinic touch is
used all the time and is often used as a gauge in how well certain
techniques are used.  Deep touch and light touch are used to inhibit and
excite nervous system pathways to illicit sensory responses.  We use
brushing protocols and the best of all big bear hugs with deep back rubs.
We teach our children hand shakes for greeting strangers.  For the children
where touch is really a strong reaction, I've even touch finger hugs as a
way to create contact.
But, each individual's reactions must be monitored closely.  In some
culturals and settings and for some individuals, touch is a strong and
intimate sense.

Elizabeth Thiers, OTR
email: [log in to unmask]
homepage: http://www.bv.net/~john/bethsot1.html

----------
> From: M. Logan <[log in to unmask]>
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: Touch
> Date: Monday, February 22, 1999 12:16 PM
>
> Interesting stuff on being touched.
>
> I have a friend here in the same department who is doing her Masters
> thesis on social touch related to self-concept and self-esteem.  She is
> wanting to point out that touch is not used for therapy and it could be
> a missing element.
>
> I am torn on this idea.  I think that a hug or a hand on the shoulder
> should be fine; however, I think that there are professionals who take
> social touch too far.  There are also people who access support who,
> probably due to past experiences, misinterpret (sp?) a hug or hand on
> the shoulder.
>
> I think a great example of touch and therapy was in the movie Good Will
> Hunting.  Robin Williams character gives the Will character a hug.  Will
> asks if this will get Robin in trouble and he says "no not unless you
> grab my butt".
>
> Martin