An Overview of Play Therapy

Abstract

Background: Play is an essential parameter of children’s growth and expression and this is the reason of why the use of play therapy is considered as fundamental means of preventing and dealing with problems and difficulties presented to children. Objective: The aim of this paper is to review the parameters related to this issue, emphasizing the efficacy of this therapeutic approach to various problems of children. Methods: A review of the recent literature on the issue, searching through Greek and international databases (Medline, Heal-link), in English and Greek language. Results: The review shows that play therapy as a form of prevention and treatment is suitable mainly for preschool and school age children. It is addressed to children who are in a transition period of their lives (after a divorce, a loss), with difficulties in managing feelings, in socializing or children who have behavioral problems. It is also addressed to children who have been witnesses of domestic violence, who have suffered some form of abuse, children who are to undergo a major surgery or those who have speech disorders. Furthermore, it is suitable for children who have some kind of developmental disorder (autism or attention deficit / hyperactivity disorder). Its efficiency is demonstrated by numerous research papers reporting a significant decrease of negative emotions and behaviors by its use. Conclusion: Play therapy is an alternative proposal of intervention on important issues related to children. Its implementation and value is widely known and is constantly expanding. The only condition for its implementation is the correct theoretical training of the professionals and the proper diagnosis.

Terapi Bermain pada Anak Berkebutuhan Khusus di Panti Asuhan Bhakti Luhur Ende

“…Selain itu, cocok untuk anak-anak yang memiliki beberapa jenis gangguan perkembangan (autisme atau gangguan pemusatan perhatian/hiperaktif). Efisiensinya ditunjukkan oleh banyak makalah penelitian yang melaporkan penurunan emosi dan perilaku negatif secara signifikan akibat penggunaan terapi bermain 14 . Selain itu, sejalan dengan hasil penelitian Zarbakhsh (2017) dan Najafi dan Sarpoolaki (2016) menunjukkan bahwa terapi bermain memperbaiki gejala berbagai ketidakmampuan belajar, seperti ketidakmampuan belajar mengeja, defisit perhatian / gangguan hiperaktif dan peningkatan kemampuan sosial siswa 15,16 .…”

Play therapy in children with autism: Its role, implications, and limitations

“…Then, the therapist deals with the problem accordingly by scaffolding and supporting the child to learn and execute self-expression and communicate via his/her thoughts of the inner world. The therapist helps overcome unresolved trauma, enables the child to master and execute a new coping mechanism, redirects inappropriate behaviors, and enriches adaptive behavioral responses[ 59 , 72 ].…”

“…Therefore, the therapist should have competent clinical, psychological, and occupational Knowledge, exceptional communication skills, a calm, patient, and friendly manner, with the ability to understand a variety of emotions and behaviors and to adapt to change and handle stressful situations. As play may need physical effort, the therapist should be physically fit to work on the floor or perform various physical activities[ 72 ].…”

Knowledge and Attitude of Staff Nurses Towards the Implementation of Play Therapy on Children

“…Children who receive play therapy are more relaxed, and so are their parents. The play activities may be suggested by the therapist or left up to the child's choice, depending on the situation and the child (Koukourikos et al, 2021).…”