What is the purpose of bibliotherapy?

The purpose of bibliotherapy is to help individuals solve their personal problems through stories. This therapeutic technique involves using literature, such as books, poetry, or other written materials, to address emotional or psychological issues. By reading about characters and their experiences, individuals can gain insight into their own feelings and behaviors, better understand their situations, and explore potential solutions in a safe and reflective way. This process can facilitate healing and promote personal growth, making it an effective method in various therapeutic settings, particularly with children and adolescents who may relate more readily to stories than direct conversation about their issues.

In contrast, the other options are focused on different therapeutic or educational approaches. While group counseling focuses on peer interaction and support, teaching academic skills emphasizes educational development, and assessing cognitive abilities pertains to evaluating intellectual functioning. Each of these methods serves distinct purposes that do not include the narrative approach of bibliotherapy.