The Paper Bag Princess

Idea submitted by Shuri Bunting, CTRS.

Read the book with the patients.  Discuss the themes of the book together.  Questions to consider include:
   -Why is the prince attracted to the princess in the first place?
   -What qualities the princess possess that are genuine and authentic, and are reasons why the prince should want to be in a relationship with her?

Relate the book the the patients' lives.  Ask:
   -What are some superficial reasons others are drawn to be in a relationship with you?
   -What are the real reasons someone should want to be in a relationship with you?

Activity:
Have each patient create their own "paper bag princess" using a brown lunch sack.  Use markers to decorate the outside of the bag.  Write superficial qualities on the outside of the bag of why people are in relationships with you (i.e. pretty, fun at parties, give them money or drugs, etc.).  On the inside of the bag, write the real qualities you possess that should attract someone to you (i.e. caring, loyal, patient, good listener).  Have patients share their puppets and reflect on the positive and negative relationships they may currently be in.