Play Therapy For Behavioral Issues

Introduction

Play therapy for behavioral issues has its roots in the early days of psychotherapy. It is a way of tailoring therapy to the unique needs of children, supporting self-expression through play rather than traditional talking therapy. Professionals from various backgrounds, for example, psychology, counselling, and social work, contribute to this multidisciplinary field. 

Play therapy began as an extension of psychotherapy, tailored specifically to engage with children at their specific developmental stage and need.¹ Early practitioners viewed play therapy not as a separate discipline, but rather as a means to extend the principles and techniques of psychotherapy to a younger age group. Play therapy recognises and adapts treatment to the distinct needs of children with the aid of  multidisciplinary teams from psychology, counselling, family therapy, social work, and clinical nursing professions.

Importance of play in child development

Playing does wonders for children, it is how they make friends and buddies, unleash their creativity, and really enjoy life, all while soaking up new knowledge. When children dive into play, they do much more than just having fun. They're on an adventure of discovery, trying out their own ideas and getting to grips with how the big world works. Playtime is their chance to break free from rules and roam in their imagination, finding out what really tickles their fancy.² Sometimes, they reenact scenes they've caught on television, so it's important to steer them towards play that spreads positivity, such as being kind and understanding towards others. 

Understanding behavioral issues in children

Types of behavioral problems

Understanding behavioral issues that children experience is significant. Understanding the different behavioral challenges that children face is essential. Some children battle with being rebellious or troublesome, whereas others may have trouble paying attention or sitting still. Awareness and knowledge of these categories of behavior ensures the right support and intervention provided to each child.

Causes and contributing factors

Research shows that things like family life, genetics, and difficult experiences can all play a part.³

There is evidence of familial and environmental factors influencing the emergence of behavioral issues in children. Poor experiences during childhood, such as abuse or family problems, can cause behavior problems later on.⁴ Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), such as abuse, neglect, and family dysfunction, have been linked to a higher likelihood of developing behavioral problems in later life.  

Impact on child development and functioning

Behavioral challenges can deeply influence a child's life in several ways. Children who struggle with these issues often have a tough time at school, making friends, or feeling emotionally unstable, which really weighs on their overall happiness and life satisfaction.⁵ With no support or treatment these children are at a higher risk of facing even tougher problems as they grow up, such as mental health struggles, turning to substance abuse, or being caught up and in trouble with the law.

Ways of thinking about play therapy differently

Play therapy is a special kind of therapy for children. Instead of talking, kids use play to express their feelings and thoughts. Here is why it works:

• Understanding Emotions: play therapy makes it easier to understand what is going on in a child’s mind. It is like peeking into their secret thoughts, just like in detective stories!
• Changing Thoughts and Behaviors: Supports children to change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. Imagine a superhero training camp for their minds!
• Growing and Developing: A way for children to grow and develop. It is like giving them magical seeds to help them blossom into strong, happy individuals.

In play therapy, the therapist is like a friendly guide. They create a safe space where children can play freely. The therapist watches, listens, and helps them understand their feelings. It is like having a trusted friend on their journey to healing and growth. 

Techniques and approaches in play therapy

Directive vs. non-directive approaches

In play therapy, therapists utilize two main approaches: directive and non-directive.⁶

• Directive approach: In directive play therapy, therapists take an active role. They guide the child’s play by suggesting fun activities, giving prompts, and setting goals for each session. Imagine it as a treasure map with clear paths! This approach provides structure and guidance, which can be especially helpful for children who find it hard to express themselves. 
• Non-Directive approach: Non-directive play therapy involves the child playing and receiving minimal assistance from the specialist. Visualize it as a mysterious mesmerizing forest where the child can explore unrestrictedly.  The mentor creates ambiance and stability, enabling the young person to focus on themselves. This approach simulates self-discovery, independence, autonomy in relationships with others, and creativity.

Types of play used in therapy

Play therapy encompasses several types of play, each serving different therapeutic purposes to help children express their thoughts and emotions.

• Symbolic Play: In symbolic play, children use toys and objects to be real-life experiences, feelings, or conflicts. They may enact scenarios, create narratives, or use metaphorical play to explore and process their inner world. Symbolic play allows children to communicate and make sense of complex emotions and experiences in a safe way.
• Expressive Play: Expressive play is all about letting kids use their creativity through art, music, dancing, or acting to share what they are feeling and going through. When they draw, paint, mold shapes, or ‘jam out’ on an instrument, they're able to show their emotions and what's on their mind without having to put it into words. This kind of play opens up a space for them to express themselves, get creative, and let out emotions in a healthy way, offering them different ways to communicate and discover more about themselves.
• Therapeutic Games: Therapeutic games are fun, structured activities with a purpose—they are all about helping children develop important life skills. Think playing board games, card games, acting out scenarios, or working together in team challenges. These are not just any games; they're specially designed to boost skills such as how to get along with others, feel good about themselves, or figure out solutions to problems. It is a great way to learn, grow, and manage emotions, all while having a great time.⁷

Play therapy for specific behavioral issues

Play Therapy for Aggressive Behavior

Play therapy is like a superpower for children who are having a tough time keeping their cool. Imagine a cozy, safe corner where they can dive into play, like shaping stories in the sand or bringing puppets to life, all to express their big feelings. It is an opportunity where they're free to express themselves without any worry, finding creative ways to say, "Hey, this is what's going on with me," without getting into trouble. This special kind of play does more than just pass the time; it is a secret classroom where they learn ninja skills for calming down, understanding their own whirlwind of emotions, and even stepping into someone else's shoes to see how they feel. The more they play, the better they get at smoothing out those rough edges, leading to fewer tantrums and more moments of understanding and laughter.

Play therapy for trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Play therapy is widely seen as a helpful way for children who have been through tough times or are dealing with PTSD to start feeling better. It is like a safe little haven where they can tackle their trauma, ease their worries, and start feeling confident again. With activities focused on healing and stories that enable children to view their experiences in a new light. Children walk in the shoes of their own stories and start to think differently about their experiences. Through play, they have a chance to heal their emotional scars, learn to roll with life's punches, and rebuild trust in themselves and the people around them.

Play therapy for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and attention difficulties

Play therapy offers a supportive approach for children with ADHD and attention difficulties. Play-based mediation supports children's skills of consideration, control of their motivation, and emotional control skills. Therapists may take part in leisure activity, movement exercise, or tactile play to engage with children and improve focused attention. Through play treatment, children with ADHD learn self-management techniques, develop social skills, and improve their ability to concentrate, leading to improved academic and social setting performance. 

Play therapy for autism spectrum disorders

Play therapy is recognised as an important mediation for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Play-based approaches, such as floor time treatment or organised play interventions help children with ASD to create social skills, communication, and compassionate understanding. Therapists use play exercises tailored to the child's interests to encourage engagement and interaction. Through play treatment, children with ASD learn to explore social situations, express themselves, and build significant connections with others, improving their overall quality of life.

FAQs

What is play therapy for behavioural problems in children?

Imagine play therapy and setting off on grand adventures right into the heart of what makes children tick. It’s like using play as a secret passageway to sneak a peek at the hidden emotions and reasons behind their actions. This isn’t just ant playtime, it’s a special journey where children, with a little help from a friendly guide (their therapist), get to explore their feelings and figure out what’s stirring up trouble. They’re not just playing, they’re on a mission to express themselves and invent their very own superhero strategies to tackle the big and small stuff bothering them. It’s all about discovery, understanding and finding those ‘aha!’ moments that help them navigate the ups and downs of growing up

What is the difference between play therapy and behavioral therapy?

Think of play therapy as a magical journey into a child's imagination, where play acts like a trusty compass leading the way to healing hearts and minds. It's less about sitting down and teaching lessons, and more about guiding children to discover wonders on their own. Behavioral therapy is like having a detailed map for changing specific behaviors. It's all about using cool tricks like cheering on good behavior, showing how things are done, and gently tweaking how children think, to help them switch up their actions for the better.

Summary 

Play therapy helps children who are going through tough times. It's based on the big idea that playing can help children understand their feelings, learn how to deal with problems, and feel better about themselves. Experts like psychologists and social workers use play therapy to create a safe space where children can play and talk about what's bothering them. This way, children learn to manage their emotions and solve problems in a positive way.

Playing is super important for children, it's not just about having fun. It helps them learn, grow, and understand the world. By playing, children can discover what they like, make friends more easily, and find their own ways to deal with challenges. Play therapy uses different kinds of play to help children express themselves and heal from the inside out.

Sometimes, children act out because of tough situations at home or bad experiences. Play therapy can help understand these issues, offering support that is all about understanding and helping children in a way that makes sense to them. Through play, children build the emotional muscle they need to lead happy, healthy lives.