Exploring the impact of child-centered play therapy for children exhibiting behavioral problems: A meta-analysis.

Abstract

The authors conducted a meta-analysis exploring the effectiveness of child-centered play therapy (CCPT) approaches with children referred for disruptive behaviors across 23 between group studies ( N = 908). Separate meta-analytic procedures were conducted for studies that implemented wait-list/no treatment and alternative treatment comparisons to estimate the aggregated treatment effect of CCPT approaches. Results revealed medium Hedges ’ s g effect sizes for externalizing and overall problem behaviors compared to alternative treatment and waitlist controls, and small Hedges ’ s g effect sizes for aggressive behaviors. The authors explore the impact of CCPT on behavioral disruptions, implications for therapists, and ways in which therapists can utilize play therapy to meet the increasing rates of childhood behavioral disorders.