Journal of Clinical Research & Bioethics

Impact of Play Therapy during Hospitalization

Rabab Vadivala^* Department of Medicine, School of Nursing and Midwifery, the Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
^*Correspondence: Rabab Vadivala, Department of Medicine, School of Nursing and Midwifery, the Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan, Email:

Received: 15-Mar-2023, Manuscript No. JCRB-23-20135 ; Editor assigned: 17-Mar-2023, Pre QC No. JCRB-23-20135 (PQ); Reviewed: 31-Mar-2023, QC No. JCRB-23-20135 ; Revised: 07-Apr-2023, Manuscript No. JCRB-23-20135 (R); Published: 17-Apr-2023, DOI: 10.35248/2155-9627.23.14.457

Description

Play therapy is a form of psychotherapy that is specifically designed for children, although it can also be used with adults. The main goal of play therapy is to help children express their emotions, resolve conflicts, and develop coping strategies through play. In play therapy, the therapist creates a safe and supportive environment for the child to play with toys and engage in other activities. Through their play, children can express their feelings and work through issues that may be difficult to express in words. The therapist may use various techniques, such as art therapy, sand play, storytelling, and roleplaying, to help the child explore and process their experiences. The therapist may also observe the child's play and use their observations to gain insight into the child's emotional and psychological state. Play therapy can be helpful for children who are dealing with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral problems, and developmental disorders. It can also be used to help children who are struggling with family issues, such as divorce, separation, and grief.

Impact during hospitalization

Play therapy can have a positive impact on children who are hospitalized for medical treatment or procedures. Hospitalization can be a stressful and traumatic experience for children, and play therapy can help children cope with the challenges of being in the hospital. Hospitalization can be a scary and stressful experience for children, and play therapy can help alleviate anxiety and stress. Play therapy can provide a distraction from the medical procedures and help children feel more relaxed and comfortable. Children who are hospitalized may have difficulty expressing their emotions and may feel isolated and alone. Play therapy provides a safe and supportive environment for children to express their feelings and connect with others. Play therapy can support children's developmental needs by promoting cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Through play, children can learn new skills, explore new ideas, and develop their creativity and imagination. Play therapy can encourage children to socialize with other children who are also hospitalized, which can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Play therapy can also help children develop social skills and build relationships. Hospitalization can be disorienting and overwhelming for children, and play therapy can provide a sense of control and agency. By allowing children to choose the activities they engage in, play therapy can help children feel more empowered and in control of their experience. Play therapy can be used to address behavioral problems in children, such as aggression, defiance, and attention problems. By helping children express their emotions and develop new coping strategies, play therapy can help improve behavior and reduce disruptive or harmful actions. Play therapy can support children's healing and recovery by promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and boosting the immune system. Play therapy can also help children cope with pain and discomfort associated with medical treatment.

Overall, play therapy can be a valuable tool for helping children cope with the challenges of hospitalization. By providing a safe and supportive environment for children to express their emotions, socialize, and play, play therapy can help children feel more comfortable, relaxed, and empowered during their hospital stay.