Citation

Conn JH. Am. J. Dis. Child. (1911) 1939; 58(6): 1199-1214.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1939, American Medical Association)

DOI

10.1001/archpedi.1939.01990110063003

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Parents and others who have observed children playing with dolls have heard them repeat the scoldings which they have received, as well as voice their own interests and attitudes. A glimpse could thus be obtained of the personal life of the child.

It has been possible to utilize these natural tendencies to self-expression in experimental play situations. The method of the play-interview, which I developed at the Children's Psychiatric Clinic (conducted by Dr. Leo Kanner) of the Harriet Lane Home, Johns Hopkins Hospital, serves to supplement other clinical methods and contributes facts concerning the imaginative and emotional aspects of the child's behavior.

The procedure provides opportunities for the child to express his feelings and thoughts through the medium of dolls as if they were responsible for all that is said and done.